Macon drivers reminded to watch for students, buses as school resumes

Drivers should expect students walking, biking and riding buses while law enforcement watches for speeding and distracted driving.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — State and local safety leaders joined AAA Friday to remind drivers to slow down, avoid distractions and watch for students as the new school year begins.

According to AAA and the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, all drivers must stop for a stopped school bus with activated flashing red lights and an extended stop arm. Garrett Townsend, public affairs director with AAA, says they do this for student safety.

“If you have a new driver, in many cases in the summertime your teen gets their driver license, and this may be the first time they’re going through a school zone,” Townsend said. “So, have those conversations with them. Again, nothing wrong with a dry run before the first day of school, so they’re aware of the dangers and how they should react to things that happen in the school zone.”

Director of Safety and Risk Management David Gowan says there have been nine pedestrian deaths in Macon-Bibb County during the first six months of this year.

“So, we want the public to be mindful,” Gowan said. “This is a tragedy and a huge problem. So, we want the public to be mindful our first day back is Monday, August 3, and we’re going to have students walking and riding on buses. We’re going to have nine schools. We’re installing bike racks, and students that have been recruited at each of those schools to safely go to school with a helmet. So, we will have student bicyclists on the road this year.”

Lt. Chris Carlisle with the Motor Carrier Compliance Division says law enforcement will be out and watching.

“Drivers should stay alert, follow reduced speed limits and avoid distractions like using cellphones while driving,” he said. “When a school bus slows down or stops, don’t just watch the bus, watch the surrounding areas too. Children often wait several feet away from the school bus and cross the street when getting on or off the bus. That’s why it’s critical to stop for school buses and never try to pass.”

The Bibb County School District starts school Monday, August 3. To learn more about school bus safety, visit the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety website.