As the school year officially starts on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, Cleveland Police Department is requesting that motorists remain vigilant for pedestrians, particularly students walking and standing near the streets in our neighborhoods. Vehicle operators are reminded not to become complacent about the absence of pedestrians along the streets; staying alert and reducing speed is crucial.
Some students have already begun practicing for extracurricular activities such as band, football, and volleyball. Cleveland Police Department encourages motorists to be especially watchful for young children walking and riding bicycles on or near roadways. Many neighborhood streets lack sidewalks, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to use the edge of the paved roadway. As a result, citizens will begin to see an increase in pedestrian and vehicle traffic on city streets.
Citizens are encouraged to get up a little earlier to avoid rushing and potentially speeding. Drivers should take an extra moment or two to look for children at intersections and those who may be about to cross the roadway.
“Drivers are being warned to slow down. We believe many of our streets will be a lot busier than in the past due to our community growing,” said Cleveland Police Chief Darrel Broussard.
With students occupying the streets and both buses and parents dropping off and picking up children, motorists are urged to show respect for one another, be courteous, and have patience.
Drivers should ensure there are no distractions inside their vehicles, especially cell phones. The use of cell phones is prohibited in school zones where signs are posted. Again, drivers should pay closer attention and stay alert when approaching or traveling in school zones. Officers will be patrolling school zones, watching for speeders and drivers using cell phones to protect our children.
Motorists on highways or public streets are required to stop before reaching a school bus operating flashing warning lights when loading or unloading students. Traffic must stop when approaching from either direction and should not proceed until the bus resumes motion or the visual warning signal lights are deactivated. Failure to stop or remain stopped for a school bus is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $500 and not more than $1,250. A second conviction may result in a suspension of the offender’s license for at least six months, as per Texas Transportation Code Sec. #545.066.
Cleveland Police Department is asking that everyone heighten their awareness when traveling in school zones or when approaching school buses, with or without warning lights activated.
Both police and citizens face significant and different challenges than ever before. Although some of these challenges can be frustrating and unclear at first, there are rules, guidelines, and policies that each person must follow.
“Wishing everyone a great school year. Let each of us make a positive impact on our community’s education, health, and safety,” Broussard said.
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