Drivers urged to be cautious as school starts

MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake Police Department is conducting a traffic emphasis focusing on school zone violations to coincide with the start of a new school year.

Motorists should expect to see more children walking to and from school this week in the mornings and afternoons as well as increased traffic as students return to school from summer vacation Wednesday.

"The first week back to school can be an exciting time for children, however some children may become distracted and not pay close enough attention to motorists," Moses Lake Police Capt. Dave Ruffin stated.

Ruffin reminded drivers to give themselves extra time to get to and from work, as the speed limit in a school zone is 20 miles per hour when children are present.

School buses pick up and drop off children, and motorists are required to stop in both directions when school bus "stop paddles" are out or when red lights are flashing, Ruffin stated.

Violating these rules could result in a traffic citation and a fine of $394.

- Staff report