Drivers urged to take extra precautions with start of school year

Photo by Tom Rivers: Albion school buses head down East Avenue on Tuesday afternoon after the first day of school.

With the start of a new school year, drivers are being reminded to take extra precautions of children walking to school or crossing streets when getting on or off a bus.

“As the new school year approaches, please remember when a school bus is stopped with its lights flashing, all motorists MUST also stop,” the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office said. “Regardless of what lane you’re in, what type of public highway/road you’re on or what direction you’re traveling, all vehicles MUST stop. Passing a school bus is a violation of NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law, and poses a danger to children getting on and off a school bus.”

• Albion had its first day of school on Tuesday, moving it up a day from Wednesday. The district started the school year a day earlier to accommodate the addition of the Juneteenth holiday on June 19 during the final week of school.
• Holley has first day today for students in grades 1 to 12.
• Kendall’s first day was Tuesday for grades 1 to 12, while today is first day for kindergarten and PreK.
• Lyndonville welcomed back students in grades 1 to 12 on Tuesday with the first day today for grades kindergarten and PreK.
• Medina has the first day today for its students.

AAA Western and Central New York said students are eager to return to class mask-free as the pandemic winds down.

“With school buses back in action, and many districts facing driver shortages, commuters should give themselves extra time, be patient, and be prepared for bus traffic,” AAA said. “Motorists should also use caution amidst student drivers returning to high school and college while parents are encouraged to talk to their children of all ages about traffic safety.”

AAA’s “School’s Open – Drive Carefully” issued the following tips for motorists and parents:

• Always stop for a school bus when the lights are flashing
• Remove all distractions from the driver – put cell phones down
• Do not pass other vehicles
• Obey crossing guards at all times
• Check you mirrors before moving
• Teach your children the rules of traffic safety