As we quickly approach the new school year it’s important to remember that our traffic patterns will change this Thursday morning (August 10). Please plan your route ahead and give yourself extra time to get to school and work.
To reduce crashes and increase safety at school bus stops and within active school zones in the City of Melbourne, the Melbourne Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Unit will be conducting an education and enforcement campaign called “Operation Back-To-School.”
The campaign will begin on the first day of school, August 10, and will run through September 14. Multiple traffic officers in unmarked vehicles will be assigned to school bus stop locations that have received safety complaints. Officers on motorcycles will be deployed to active school zones to watch for safety violations, such as drivers using a mobile device while in an active school zone.
The Melbourne Police Department reminds residents that we all have a role to play in preventing accidents:
- Motorists: Come to a complete stop first and check for pedestrians and bicyclists as well as other vehicles before turning. Yield to pedestrians. Do not text and drive – it is dangerous and illegal.
- Pedestrians: Always cross at marked crosswalks when available. Look both ways and don’t assume cars will see you or will be able to stop in time if you run out into the road.
- Bicyclists: Always ride with traffic, use proper hand signals, and obey all safety and road signs. A bicycle rider or passenger who is under 16 years of age must wear a bicycle helmet.
Please be prepared, practice patience and together we can make it a great start to the new school year.
