Arkansas State Police Offers Back-to-School Safety Tips for Drivers
As students return to school, the Arkansas State Police are urging drivers to exercise extra caution on the road. The increase in pedestrian and vehicular traffic during this period creates a heightened risk of accidents, making it crucial for drivers to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines.
A significant threat to road safety is distracted driving, which continues to be a major cause of crashes nationwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 32,400 people died in crashes involving distracted drivers between 2011 and 2020. In Arkansas, law enforcement agencies have implemented measures to combat distracted driving, including targeted operations to stop and ticket drivers caught texting behind the wheel.
To ensure a safe and smooth commute, drivers are advised to slow down, particularly in school zones, and be aware of pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, drivers are encouraged to avoid distractions such as texting, emailing, or using social media while driving. Turning off notifications, keeping your phone out of reach while driving, and using your car’s built-in features like Bluetooth connectivity can all help minimize the risk of a distracted driving accident.
In Arkansas, the “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” campaign aims to educate drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and the consequences of violating the state’s distracted driving laws. These laws prohibit the use of handheld cellular devices for texting, typing, emailing, or accessing the internet while driving, with fines ranging from up to 0 for a first offense and up to 0 for subsequent offenses.
Parents and guardians are also reminded to set a good example for their children by following these safety guidelines themselves. By working together, we can help make the roads safer for everyone, especially during the busy back-to-school season.
- Remember: Pay attention to your surroundings, slow down in school zones, and avoid distractions while driving. When it comes to back-to-school safety, every effort counts!
Whether you are a driver, a pedestrian, or a parent, let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and successful school year.