Roadways are getting busier this time of year; don't drive distracted

As parents rejoice and students lament, schools are returning to session across the Show-Me State. Drivers are reminded to slow down and pay attention as more children will be on or near roadways, walking and bicycling to school or waiting for the bus.

In 2019, 19,243 crashes in Missouri involved a distracted driver. These crashes resulted in 79 deaths and 7,634 more people injured, according to Missouri State Highway Patrol statistics.

But it's not just on the roadway drivers need to be cautious. Hurriedly backing out of the driveway without paying attention could lead to serious injury for a child running to catch the bus. Please slow down, use caution and be alert to changing surroundings.

Part of those changing surroundings is the influx of school busses on the road. Remember, it's state law for vehicles in both lanes to stop when a bus has its red warning lights flashing and stop sign extended. Even in situations when opposing traffic is not required to stop, drivers still need to be alert to unexpected obstacles.

Those busses, parents driving kids to school and teachers commuting means roads will be busier than they have been the past few months. Never use your cellphone when driving. And set a good example for your young passengers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is bucked in.