AUGUST 11, 2023

The Vision Zero Truckee Meadows regional task force is reminding the community to use extra caution in and around schools as Washoe County School District classes resume on Monday, August 14.

During the 2022-2023 school year, there were 21 crashes involving Washoe County students. One of those students sustained life-threatening injuries after a crash near McQueen High School. 10 of those crashes happened in marked crosswalks. The total number of crashes was higher than during the previous school year, so drivers need to remain vigilant. Local students arriving to school safely is just as important as their safety while at school.

Crashes near school zones are preventable. Local law enforcement agencies will be increasing enforcement in and around school zones this summer and fall to help keep students safe.

Vision Zero Truckee Meadows recommends the following safety tips:

• Stay on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the far left so you can see oncoming traffic.
• Cross the street only at corners or crosswalks.
• Make eye contact with drivers. Make sure they see you.
• Walk in groups and use extra caution in the dark. Wear reflective or highly visible clothing or backpacks to help others see you in low-light conditions.
• Take your earbuds out, turn your devices down, and keep your head up.
• Drivers should watch for children walking and bicycling to school and be mindful of school zone speed reductions.
• Per state law, no U-turns or passing are allowed in active school zones or school crossing zones.
• Drivers must obey crossing guard directions – not only is it the right thing to do, but it is also the law.

Some drivers in recent school year’s crashes reported that bright sun affected their visibility. If you are unable to see where you are driving due to the bright sun, please pull over until you are able to see the roadway to safely continue.