Staff Report
KYLE — As students head back to school, the Kyle Police Department is urging drivers and families to stay alert and make safety a priority during daily commutes.
With more children walking, biking and riding school buses, drivers can expect increased congestion around school zones. Delays are likely, so plan ahead and allow extra time for the commute. Motorists are urged to slow down, eliminate distractions and follow all posted traffic signs.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), 781 traffic crashes occurred in Texas school zones in 2024 alone. These incidents highlight the importance of extra caution and awareness during school hours, especially near campuses, explained a news release.
Motorists traveling in all directions are required to stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights and extends its stop sign, unless they’re on a divided highway. Moments when children are getting on or off the bus are some of the most critical for driver awareness.
Pedestrian and bicycle safety are equally important, read the news release. At crosswalks marked with stop signs, drivers must come to a full stop and wait until the crosswalk is completely clear. At yield signs, vehicles must still allow the right-of-way to pedestrians. Where crossing guards are present, follow their signals and instruction, they are trained to provide the safest path and protect children as they cross.
Students walking or biking to school should always use crosswalks, remain on sidewalks when available and wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. KPD also encouraged parents to walk or ride routes with their children before the first day of school, reinforcing safety rules and evaluating any potential hazards.
While the first few weeks of school may bring heavier traffic during drop-off and pick-up times, this typically improves as families begin to settle into their routines and school traffic patterns become more predictable.
“Keeping our kids safe is a shared responsibility,” said KPD Chief Jeff Barnett. “We’re asking everyone, including parents, drivers and students, to do their part as school starts up again.”
KPD encourages families to review these tips together and help ensure every child gets to and from school safely.
