Back-to-School Rules of The Road

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Thousands of students are heading back to school today and that means the roads will be crowded.

Police say it's important for all drivers to anticipate extra delays as school begins again.

"Leave a little bit earlier because the commute is going to take a bit longer," says Sgt. Jeff White with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. "Be aware that school buses are back on the roadways."

Crossing guards will also be in the roads and the school zones will be activated today.

JSO wants to remind drivers they must slowdown in the school zones when the lights are flashing.

"Also be aware that the kids are going to be near the roadway and may dart out into traffic," says Sgt. White. "That's why they have slower speeds (in school zones)."

The fines for traffic violations in school zones start at $129.

Drivers must also be on the lookout for buses stopping to pick-up or drop-off students.

Sgt. White says for drivers on a road divided by 5 feet of unpaved roadway, a raised median or physical barrier, then drivers going the opposite direction don't have to stop when the buses stop.

But if there is no divider in the roadway then all lanes of traffic must stop, regardless of travel direction, when a school bus puts out the stop sign.

"If you violate those laws then it's a $179 fine," says Sgt. White. "If you pass a stopped school bus on the side that children are entering or exiting then that's a $279 fine."

For parents or students in Duval County who have problems with the school buses, they can call 381-RIDE to get help from the Transportation Call Center.

Students also need to be careful around the should buses. School officials say the students need to be at the bus stop 10 minutes early.

Kids should stand at least 5 to 10 steps away from the edge of the road.

Wait until the bus driver says it's okay before stepping onto the bus.

Be careful not to get clothing snagged on the handrail or door when getting off the bus.

Always check both ways for cars before stepping off the bus.