ARKANSAS, USA — The new school year is here, which means the roads will get a little busier during drop-off and pick-up hours. With the added back-to-school traffic, the good news is that there isn't much new construction people need to worry about.
"There are no big projects that are starting or winding down that should impact their going to school," Dave Parker with the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) said.
However, Parker said you should still make sure your normal route is looking good before school starts.
"Don't assume that everything is just smooth sailing," he said. "Take five minutes and double-check to make sure there isn't any construction or that you are familiar with the road."
Parker also said that while traffic around schools does increase, studies show that highways become less busy once school starts.
When it comes to school buses, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) asks that you stay extra cautious around them.
"There's absolutely no reason to pass a school bus to get to your destination — at least pass one unlawfully," Capt. Brad Lann said. "When you see those red lights come on, you see the school bus start slowing down, come to a stop, try to stay at least 30 feet or more behind that bus. Give them plenty of room."
Lann explained the law on stopping at bus stop signs.
"On a divided highway, if there's a 20-foot median or more than if you're going the opposite direction, then you wouldn't technically have to stop, but we highly suggest that you slow down," he said. "On a non-divided highway, you are required to stop no matter which direction you are going."
If you don't stop, there could be some hefty consequences.
"There's now a $2,500 fine, or up to 90 days in jail for your first offense, so it's something that we take very seriously," Lann said. "The troopers will be out watching for these violations, and it will be a zero tolerance on these citations."
He also advises you to stay off your phone, especially in school zones.
"It is illegal to be on your cell phone, even hands-free in a school zone," Lann said. "When you're in that school zone and children are present, you have to put that cell phone down."
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