Police ask drivers to slow down as school starts back

Target Zero safety plan aims to eliminate traffic deaths

Simpsonville, S.C. — With school starting back, the Simpsonville Police Department is asking drivers to "keep our kids safe" by slowing down and obeying speed limits.

Simpsonville police are participating in the statewide traffic safety initiative Target Zero, a comprehensive plan to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries down to zero. Included in the Target Zero pledge are always buckling up, driving only sober, obeying the speed limit and driving without distractions, such as cell phones.

Traffic safety officer Adam J. Bradshaw said slowing down and obeying the speed limit will help prevent deaths and injuries and keep children safe.

"Our request is simple but crucial to saving lives: obey the speed limit," Bradshaw said. "One death or one injury from traffic accidents is one too many, especially when it comes to our kids. Roads near schools can get congested with traffic and school buses, and kids sometimes have to cross the road. Note the speed limit in school zones, obey the speed limit and pay attention to your driving. Failing to do so could have tragic consequences."

Tips from the S.C. Department of Public Safety for driving in school zones include slowing down when school buses or children are present; stopping for school buses when loading or unloading passengers and when their lights flash red and an extended "STOP" arm is visible and watch for children walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks or when backing out of a driveway.

Most crashes involving young children happen 3-6 p.m., in fair and warm weather and near their homes or own streets, according to SCDPS.

Simply put, obey the sign or pay the fine.

For more information about Target Zero or traffic safety, visit the following link: Target Zero.