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School is back in session and that means many Louisiana children will be on the roads transported to and from campuses. Attorney General Jeff Landry wants all drivers in our state to be extra careful to keep students and themselves safe.

“Louisiana’s children are our state’s greatest resource,” Landry said. “Let’s protect them this school year by exercising care and caution on the roads.”

Landry offers drivers in Louisiana the following safety tips:

• Be cautious. Always use caution when in an area with a high number of pedestrians — especially a school zone, as children can be unpredictable and may unknowingly walk into traffic. Do not pass, change lanes, or make U-Turns while driving in school zones.
• Be courteous. Never pass up a school bus that is picking up or dropping off kids and never pass up a car that is stopped for pedestrians. Not only is this against the law, but it is also incredibly dangerous and may result pedestrians getting hit.
• Be safe. Do not double park and avoid picking up or dropping off kids across the street from their school. When necessary, get down and cross the street with them; remember to look both ways before crossing and make sure your kids do not put themselves in danger by running ahead.
• Watch the road. Do not text while driving. Keep your eyes on the road, not on your phone.
• Follow traffic laws. Adhere to speed limit, respect “No Parking” and “No Stopping” zones, and yield to pedestrians in school zones.
• Teach your kids. Educate your kids how to behave safely around traffic. Remind them to listen to crossing guards, pay attention when crossing the street, and never blindly go out into traffic.