Back-to-School Traffic Safety: What Drivers Should Know About Buses, Crosswalks & School Zones

Back-to-School season is coming!

​Here’s what Texas drivers need to know about crosswalks, buses, and school zone laws to avoid accidents, tickets, and costly insurance consequences.

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As backpacks hit shoulders and buses return to their morning routes, it’s time for every Texas driver to brush up on back-to-school traffic safety. Whether you’re a parent, a teen driver, or a commuter heading through school zones, following the rules isn’t just smart—it’s the law.

Here’s what you need to know to keep kids safe and protect yourself from tickets, liability claims, and insurance rate hikes.

🛑 Stop for School Buses—Always
Texas law requires all drivers to stop for a school bus when:

• It has flashing red lights
• The stop sign arm is extended

🛑 This applies to:

• Two-lane roads
• Multi-lane roads without a median

🚘 You don’t have to stop if you're on the opposite side of a divided roadway with a physical barrier, but it’s always better to slow down and be cautious.

🚨 Penalties for passing a stopped school bus can include:

• Fines up to $1,250
• License suspension for repeat offenders
• Major hits to your driving record and insurance rates

🚸 Crosswalks: Yield Every Time
Pedestrian safety is critical during school hours. Always:

• Stop for people in or waiting to enter a crosswalk
• Never block crosswalks while waiting at a red light
• Watch for crossing guards and student patrols

🧍 Even if it’s not a marked crosswalk, Texas law says you must yield to pedestrians in unmarked intersections.

👟 Tip: Slow down near parks, schools, or neighborhoods—kids can be unpredictable, especially during arrival and dismissal.

🚦 Know the School Zone RulesTexas school zones are typically active:

• Weekdays from 7:00–9:00 AM and 2:30–4:30 PM
• Whenever lights are flashing or signage says “When Children Are Present”

📱 Texting and handheld phone use are prohibited in school zones, even if you're at a stop.

📉 Penalties include:

• Speeding ticket fines nearly double in school zones
• Moving violations in these areas may raise your insurance premiums

👮‍♂️ Many cities use school zone enforcement cameras, so even if no officer is present, you may still get cited by mail.

👶 New or Teen Driver in the Family?
School traffic is often a new driver’s biggest challenge. Talk to your teen about:

• Watching for kids darting into the street
• Avoiding distractions
• Taking it slow when backing out of driveways near schools

🛡️ Pro tip: Consider increasing liability limits and checking if your policy offers accident forgiveness or teen driver monitoring discounts.

🏁 Final Thoughts
​Back-to-school season should be about new beginnings—not avoidable accidents or citations. As drivers, staying alert and informed keeps our roads safer for everyone—from tiny backpack-wearers to bus drivers doing their rounds.

Have questions about how school zone tickets or teen drivers affect your insurance?
Corin Insurance Group is happy to walk you through your policy and help you make sure your family is protected this school year.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Traffic laws and enforcement may vary by jurisdiction. Always consult your local traffic code and licensed insurance agent for specific guidance related to your situation.