Authorities Encourage Safe Driving As New School Year Begins

Local authorities are encouraging citizens to stay safe while driving as a new school year begins.

Cookeville Police Captain Bobby Anderson said drivers should be aware of their surroundings as buses return to the roadways.

“Also watch for the crossing guards. Last year we had a crossing guard struck by a vehicle and we want to keep our crossing guards safe as well,” Anderson said. “Also watch for the school buses as they load and unload children on the streets. We also want to remind everyone that stopping for a school bus sign also applies on school property.”

Anderson said drivers will need to be mindful of Tennessee’s new Hands Free Law that went into effect earlier this month.

“That’s basically an extension of what did just apply in school zones,” Anderson said. “So remember to stay off the phone and watch for distracted driving. Pay attention when you go through those school zones.”

The new Hands Free Law now includes a $200 fine for drivers who use a cell phone or mobile device in an active school zone.  Anderson said speeding and distracted driving have become reoccurring issues in some of Cookeville’s school zones.

“Everyone tends to want to go a little faster through the speed zone, so maintain your speed within those school zones which is typically 15 miles an hour,” Anderson said. “Amother common problem is the Hands-Free [Law] and holding a cell phone. Obviously that’s a habit that we all need to break. Just pay attention and wait on that phone call.”

The Putnam County School System begins its 2019-2020 school year Tuesday with early dismissal at 10 a.m.