As the new school year begins, the El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) Police Department is reminding parents, students, and drivers to exercise extra caution on the roads. Chief Donica Pedregón highlighted several common hazards that arise when children travel to and from school, especially during the busy morning and afternoon rush.
Stay Focused Behind the Wheel
Chief Pedregón said the most serious accidents occur when drivers are distracted or when students are not fully aware of their surroundings. He urged motorists to put phones away, turn down music, and avoid wearing headphones while driving. “When pedestrians or drivers have music on full blast, it prevents them from paying attention to their surroundings,” he explained.
Respect Bike Riders and Pedestrians
Bike riders have the right of way in school zones, and drivers must share the road with them. The chief also reminded cyclists that when approaching a crosswalk they should dismount and walk across on foot. This simple step helps prevent collisions and keeps both cyclists and pedestrians safe.
Plan for Safe Drop‑Offs and Pick‑Ups
Parents are encouraged to discuss a clear plan with their children about who will pick them up and how to reach that person if needed. “Parents just need to have those conversations with their kids about safety, watching their surroundings, and not talking to strangers,” Chief Pedregón said.
If a child feels unsafe or is approached by an unfamiliar adult, the chief advises the child to report the incident immediately to a trusted adult, a police officer on campus, or the school principal.
Obey School‑Bus Laws
Texas law requires drivers to stop behind a school bus when its red lights are flashing. Failure to do so can result in fines up to $1,250, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Chief Pedregón warned that impatient drivers who try to pass a stopped bus put boarding or alighting students at risk.
He added that drivers caught speeding in a school zone could face fines exceeding $1,000. The presence of flashing school‑zone lights often signals slower traffic, and drivers should adjust their speed accordingly.
Take Time, Not Risks
“Our mission is to ensure that everybody goes home at the end of the day,” Chief Pedregón said. “It just takes a little patience and leaving your house a little bit early sometimes, but nothing is ever important enough to rush and possibly hurt yourself or somebody else.”
The EPISD police department will continue to issue safety reminders throughout the school year, working with parents, students, and the broader community to keep El Paso’s streets safe for everyone.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
