School will be starting soon and the Nolan County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind motorists to use extra caution and obey speed limits, particularly in residential neighborhoods and school zones.

Many young students will walk or ride bicycles to school or to the bus stop, older students will drive themselves to school for the first time this year and will be sharing the road and parking lots with many other new drivers as well as pedestrians, therefore it is important and encouraged that all motorists and young drivers be vigilant and never allow distractions to take their eyes off the road. The use of cell phones in a school zone is prohibited! Put away your cell phone and don’t talk or text while driving! Watch for children at intersections, on curbs and in crosswalks and take extra care when entering and exiting driveways and alleys.

Beware of children darting out from between parked vehicles.

Motorists, use caution when following or approaching a school bus, especially near bus stops. Do not pass a school bus, motorists must stop for all school buses when the stop sign is out and or lights are flashing. This is true even if the bus is on the opposite side of the street.

Deputies will strictly enforce all traffic laws near schools, giving citations that carry greater fines than regular speeding infractions.

“Let’s work together to protect our children so that they have a safe and enjoyable school year.”