With the 2020-21 school year set to begin in Knox County on Monday, the Knoxville Police Department will begin vigorous school zone enforcement on August 24. The enhanced school zone enforcement efforts will run through Friday, September 4.
KPD officers will be assigned to 26 area elementary schools, seven middle schools and six high schools on a daily basis, both prior to school hours and after classes let out, in a concerted effort to deter dangerous or careless driving. Officers will be specifically working to prevent speeding, all forms of distracted or reckless driving, violations of the school bus laws and right of way regulations.
With school resuming, citizens are reminded to exercise extreme caution when operating a vehicle in a school zone. Citizens are expected to slow down, adhere to the posted speed limit, eliminate distractions and remain cognizant of their surroundings, as children can be unpredictable and attempt to cross the street when least expected. Motorists should not under any circumstances pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians, and never pass a school bus from behind or from either direction when on an undivided street if it is stopped to unload or pick up children.
It is everyone’s responsibility to protect children. By taking those actions, we can ensure that children remain safe and a senseless tragedy can be avoided.