AAA is advising Florida drivers to be extra cautious as students head back to school on Monday in and around Osceola County. Expect heavier traffic, particularly in school zones and near bus stops. Drivers should allow for extra time in their commutes and avoid speeding or using handheld devices in school zones, where such activities are illegal.

Recent AAA survey data highlights that many Floridians typically drive through school zones or pass bus stops. Increased awareness and safety measures are crucial to protect both drivers and pedestrians, especially children who are at a higher risk of traffic accidents.

“Get ready for heavier traffic than normal, especially at first, since a lot of parents like to drive their kids to campus during the first few days back,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “It would be a good idea to budget an extra half hour for your morning commute. This is important, because drivers who are running late are more likely to speed and take unnecessary risks while behind the wheel. That endangers everyone on the roadway.”

According to a recent AAA survey, more than half of Floridians typically drive through a school zone (57%) or pass a school bus stop (55%) on their normal driving route. “These school zones and bus stops have not been active for the past couple of months. So, drivers will need to adjust their morning habits. Slow down and watch for young students near traffic lanes, because they may not be watching for you.”

Other survey stats:

  •  36% admitted to speeding in an active school zone.
  • 27% admitted to using their hand-held cell phone while driving in active school zones.

“When driving through an active school zone, it’s extremely important to lower your speed and raise your awareness,” Jenkins continued. “Remember, in Florida it is illegal to use your handheld mobile device while driving through an active school zone.”

Motor Vehicle Crashes are the Greatest Threat for Children

Nationwide, nearly 1 out of every 5 children (14 and younger) who dies in a traffic crash is a pedestrian. While it’s important for drivers to exercise caution, pedestrians have a shared responsibility for staying safe.

“Distracted pedestrians can be just as consequential as a distracted driver,” Jenkins said. “Now is an important time to talk to your students about the rules of the road and ways to stay safe. Discourage them from wearing earbuds or looking down at digital devices while standing or walking near traffic lanes. Otherwise, they may not detect an approaching vehicle.”