Back To School 'Traffic Safety Blitz' Planned For Leesburg

LEESBURG, VA — The Leesburg Police Department is orchestrating a "traffic safety blitz," authorities said in a news release. The traffic enforcement effort intends to protect students as they return to classrooms this week.

The traffic safety blitz is an annual effort that coincides with the beginning of the school year. This year's enforcement campaign will run for two weeks from Aug. 23 to Sept. 3, the police department said.

Officers from the Leesburg Police Department, alongside Virginia State troopers, will target school zones. They will use electronic message boards throughout the town to remind drivers to slow down, watch for children, and remain vigilant.

The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office is executing a similar enforcement effort throughout the county.

"We are all excited about returning to the classroom," Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman said. "As the new school year is upon us, we are asking drivers to watch out for school-age children in school zones and in neighborhoods."

In a news release, the sheriff's office offered several tips to help all students stay safe on there way to and from school, whether they ride the bus, walk, or ride a bike.

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Bus riders are urged not to cross the street in front of a bus, since it's harder to see other drivers. Those who walk or bike to school can wear bright clothing to increase their visibility and always look both ways before crossing.

The Leesburg Police Department's efforts will focus on speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, stop sign violations, child safety seat usage, and pedestrian violations, officials said. The goal is to decrease the number of accidents occurring in and around schools, the police department said.

Even after their back to school blitz, the Leesburg Police Department plans to maintain their efforts. "During the remainder of the school year, the department will target school zone areas based on statistical analysis with a goal of achieving a reduction in both personal injury and property damage crashes," the police department wrote in a news release. "Pedestrian and motorist safety is paramount to the Leesburg Police Department and can only be attained with the cooperation of community members."