Traffic Violations to be Heavily Enforced in School Areas

Prince William County's fleet of 800 buses hit the pavement yesterday morning in Woodbridge -- as well as the rest of the county -- prompting "back-to-school" traffic violation patrols.

The Prince William County Police Department is cracking down on two violations that directly impact school children: passing a stopped school bus and speeding in a school zone.

Along with other traffic violations at school crossings and surrounding buses, police are highlighting these two infractions.

Remember Driver's Education? Here's a refresher:

Driving Around School Buses

According to the Code of Virginia, drivers must stop when the school bus is stopped on a highway, private road or school road when picking up or unloading students.

But, if there is a divided highway -- such as on Old Bridge Road before Woodbridge High School – access road or driveway separated by a physical barrier drivers do not need to stop for buses.

When a bus is unloading or loading students near the school, the exception to this rule is if a uniformed crossing guard is present, directing traffic.

If drivers fail to stop for buses, it could result in a reckless driving charge, fine up to $2,500 and possible jail time. 

Flashing School Zone Signs

When lights on a School Zone speed limit sign are flashing, the speed limit is in effect and is aggressively enforced.

Yesterday morning, motorcycle police officers with radar guns were spotted on Smoketown Road immediately before the school zone at Gar-Field Senior High School.

Penalty for speeding in a school zone area can result in a fine over $250 and, if the driver is speeding fast enough, a reckless driving charge.

Radars, specialty vehicles and other speed measuring devices will be heavily used to enforce the speed law.