MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS)- The Murfreesboro Police Department is reminding drivers to use extra caution in school zones as students return to classrooms across the city.
In a Facebook post, MPD shared several safety reminders aimed at protecting students traveling to and from school, including stopping for school buses, obeying reduced speed limits, avoiding cellphone use and watching for pedestrians in crosswalks.
Police reminded motorists that when a school bus has its stop sign extended, drivers are required to stop. On roads without a physical median separating traffic, the requirement applies to motorists traveling in both directions. Tennessee law provides an exception when vehicles are traveling on a separate roadway of a divided highway.
MPD also urged drivers to obey posted school-zone speed limits. Lower speeds give motorists more time to react to children, buses, crossing guards and changing traffic conditions near schools.
Another reminder from police is to stay off cellphones while driving through school zones. Tennessee’s Hands-Free Law makes it illegal for drivers to hold a cellphone or mobile device while operating a vehicle.
Drivers should also remain alert at crosswalks and yield to pedestrians. Police emphasized that children may be crossing near schools and that motorists have a responsibility to watch carefully and allow them to cross safely.
MPD’s School Safety Division works with Murfreesboro City Schools to help provide a safe environment for students, teachers and staff throughout the district.
The department is asking motorists to slow down, eliminate distractions and remain especially attentive when traveling through school zones.
