PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: School Bus & School Zone Safety

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

From Sheriff Charles R. Guillory Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office -

School Bus & School Zone Safety

As Evangeline Parish enters another busy school year, Sheriff Charles R. Guillory reminds all motorists that school bus safety and school‑zone awareness are not optional - they are life‑saving responsibilities. Every driver plays a critical role in protecting our children, especially during morning drop‑off and afternoon dismissal when traffic is heaviest and young students are most unpredictable.

 
🚸 A Message to All Drivers
Children do not always follow traffic rules. They may run across the road without looking, step out from between parked vehicles, or become distracted while loading or unloading from buses. Because of this, the burden falls on us - the adults behind the wheel - to anticipate mistakes and prevent tragedies.

Sheriff Guillory emphasizes that a child's safety is worth every second of patience and every mile per hour you slow down.

 
🚌 School Bus Safety Requirements
Each item begins with a Guided Link so you can continue the conversation if you want deeper guidance or additional materials.

Stop for School Buses - Louisiana law requires drivers to stop when a school bus extends its stop arm or flashes red lights, regardless of direction, unless separated by a physical median.
Watch for Loading/Unloading Children - Children may cross unexpectedly. Maintain a wide safety buffer around buses at all times.
Avoid Distractions - Phones, radios, and conversations must take a back seat when children are present.
Expect Sudden Movement - Children often misjudge distance and speed. Drive as if a child could step into the roadway at any moment.
 
🚦 School Zone Safety
Slow Down in Posted Zones - Reduced speed limits are strictly enforced during active school hours.
Obey Crossing Guards - Their instructions are legally binding and designed to protect students.
Increase Following Distance - More space means more reaction time if a child darts into the roadway.
Be Prepared to Stop - Traffic can change instantly near schools; defensive driving prevents collisions.
 
⚠️ Sheriff Guillory's Reminder
"Children depend on us. They trust that drivers will see them, slow down for them, and protect them. Even when they forget the rules, we cannot forget ours."

The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office will continue conducting high‑visibility patrols in school zones and bus routes throughout the parish. Violations - including speeding, passing stopped buses, and distracted driving - will be addressed immediately to ensure the safety of every child.

 
📞 Report Unsafe Driving
If you witness reckless or dangerous behavior near a school or bus route, contact the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office at 337‑363‑2161.