Back to School Traffic Safety

Spokane Police are urging drivers to slow down as children return to school, emphasizing the dangers of speeding in school zones. The Traffic Unit will actively monitor compliance with speed limits and look out for distracted drivers and bus stop violations. A national survey indicates that two-thirds of drivers exceed posted speeds in school zones during critical times. Speed-related crashes claimed 221 lives in Washington in 2024, with distracted driving resulting in 16 deaths. In Spokane, over the last five years, more than 20 fatal crashes involved speeding or distraction.

Authorities stress the importance of children's safety, noting that a pedestrian hit at 20 mph has a 90% survival rate, which drops to 50% at 30 mph. Parents are encouraged to remind children about road safety and use reflective clothing for visibility. The Spokane Police will implement photo enforcement cameras in school zones starting Tuesday to enhance safety measures.