News Summary
As the new school year begins, Coffee County Schools are alerting drivers to expect increased traffic around school zones due to bus operations. Local officials are emphasizing school bus safety regulations to protect students. Motorists must be aware of the need to stop for buses picking up or dropping off children and should adhere to safety tips to ensure a secure commuting environment for all. It’s crucial for the community to work together to prioritize the safety of students during the school year.
Coffee County, TN – As the new school year kicks off tomorrow, August 4, 2025, the Coffee County Schools are preparing for an influx of traffic around school zones. School buses will be operating throughout the community, which is expected to lead to increased congestion for motorists.
Officials are advising drivers to anticipate heavier traffic and potential delays near schools as students arrive for the first day of classes. While local law enforcement will be on-site to help direct traffic, their presence is not expected to fully alleviate delays.
In light of the heightened activity on the roads, both the Coffee County School System and local authorities are emphasizing the importance of school bus safety. All motorists must adhere to specific regulations when encountering school buses actively picking up or dropping off students. When a school bus has its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended, drivers are obligated to stop, except when on highways separated by medians.
Vehicles traveling in the same direction as the school bus are also required to halt when the bus is loading or unloading passengers. Furthermore, when a bus displays flashing amber lights, it indicates a pending stop, and motorists should reduce their speed and prepare to stop.
Drivers are advised to remain stopped until all students have boarded the bus in the morning or have cleared 12 feet off the roadway in the afternoon. Failing to comply with these regulations can endanger the lives of children and may result in penalties for the drivers involved.
Safety Tips for Motorists
To promote safety in school zones, motorists are encouraged to follow these essential tips:
- Stay alert and patient around school bus stops.
- Watch for children walking to and from school bus stops.
- Slow down when yellow flashing lights are activated.
- Avoid speeding up to beat a school bus.
- Remain stopped until the stop sign is retracted and lights are turned off.
- Avoid distractions, such as texting or phone calls, while driving.
- Observe student actions at bus stops and be prepared to respond.
- Obey all traffic laws, particularly lower speed limits in school zones.
- Do not pass other vehicles in school zones or make U-turns at school crossings.
- Follow the directions of school crossing guards at designated areas.
- Drive or park only in authorized places when picking up or dropping off children.
Background Context
The construction of a safe transportation environment for students is a top priority for Coffee County Schools, as the district showcases a commitment to ensuring that every child can travel to and from school safely. As families prepare for the new academic year, adhering to school bus safety guidelines becomes increasingly important. Increased visibility and awareness of school buses can help create a safer commute for all students.
As the school year progresses, regular reminders and updates on traffic safety will further support efforts to cultivate a secure environment for children. It remains vital for everyone in the community to work together to prioritize the safety of its youngest members on the road.
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Additional Resources
- Douglas Now
- Wikipedia: School Bus
- WTVY
- Google Search: Coffee County Schools
- WGRV
- Google Scholar: School Traffic Safety
- Tullahoma News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Bus Regulations
- WTVY
- Google News: Coffee County Bus Driver Shortage
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