Back to School Traffic Safety

Spokane Police are urging drivers to exercise caution and reduce speeds in school zones as students return for the new school year. The Traffic Unit will actively enforce speed limits and monitor for distracted drivers, with school zone photo enforcement cameras set to activate Tuesday. Speed-related crashes resulted in 221 deaths across Washington in 2024, with more than 20 fatal crashes in Spokane linked to speeding and distracted driving in the last five years. Children are particularly vulnerable, as survival rates for pedestrians drop significantly with increased vehicle speeds. Parents should remind children to wear bright and reflective clothing and to follow road safety rules.

Bus riders must remove backpacks before sitting to ensure safety. The Spokane Police Department aims to foster a safer environment for children as they navigate their way to school. Collective community efforts are vital to safeguarding students during this critical time.