Traffic Safety Effort Reinforces Safe Driving Around Local Schools

As students returned to classrooms Monday, the City of Maricopa Police Department joined neighboring law enforcement agencies for a coordinated traffic safety operation focused on keeping school zones safe during one of the busiest travel days of the year. 

The regional traffic task force placed additional officers throughout the area to monitor school zones, major intersections and high-traffic corridors, with an emphasis on educating drivers and addressing behaviors that put students and other motorists at risk. 

During the operation, officers made 86 traffic stops, resulting in 56 citations, one arrest for an outstanding warrant and one vehicle tow. 

While enforcement is an important part of traffic safety, the department says the larger goal is encouraging safe driving habits that help prevent crashes before they happen. 

"Keeping our school zones safe is a year-round priority, but the first few weeks of school are when we really ask drivers to reset their habits," said Sgt. Hal Koozer, supervisor of the Maricopa Police Department Traffic Unit. "After a summer without students walking to school or waiting at bus stops, it's easy to forget just how busy these areas become. Slowing down, putting your phone away and staying alert can make all the difference in protecting our kids." 

The Maricopa Police Department encourages drivers to: 

• Slow down and obey posted school zone speed limits. 

• Eliminate distractions, including mobile phones, while driving. 

• Watch for children crossing streets and at bus stops. 

• Yield to crossing guards and pedestrians in crosswalks. 

• Allow extra travel time during school arrival and dismissal periods. 

Talking with Your Kids About Roadway Safety 

While it’s important for drivers to be aware, there are also steps pedestrians and bicyclists can take to stay safe as well. Parents and Guardians are encouraged to talk to their students about these tips.  

• Walk on sidewalks whenever possible and always cross at marked crosswalks or intersections. 

• Stay alert by putting away phones and removing headphones while walking or riding. 

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet when riding a bicycle or scooter and be sure to ride with the direction of traffic.  

• Wait for school buses to come to a complete stop, and only cross in front of the bus when directed by the driver.