While there’s still a great deal of uncertainty, it appears likely that back-to-school season will look drastically different this year due to the ongoing pandemic. Depending on your region’s approach to this school year and a potential return to the classroom, drivers may experience:

• A reduction or virtual elimination of traditional back-to-school traffic patterns as many districts opt for remote learning.
• A shift in typical rush hours with more periods of congestion as some school districts implement split sessions or other hybrid scenarios; instead of the usual morning and afternoon spikes, there might be morning, midday, and evening peaks.
• A significant increase in traffic if a larger number of parents are required or choose to drop off their children due to bus restrictions.

Whether your region experiences reduced congestion, skewed traffic patterns, or an increase in the number of vehicles on the road, fleet drivers will need to be especially cautious while near school zones as we all adjust to the uncertainty of the upcoming school year. With that in mind, here are some essential tips to help keep drivers and students safe this school year.

• Slow Down
• Stop For School Buses
• Be mindful of children
• Avoid your phone when behind the wheel
• Watch out for walkers and cyclists

And remember, if in doubt – drive safely.