"Back to School” Traffic Safety Reminders and Tips

As Torrance’s children head back to school, the Torrance Police Department is reminding motorists to take extra precaution when travelling in school zones.

When schools are in session, many children will be walking or riding their bicycles to and from school – many of them during the busiest time of the day when motorists are travelling to work or home after a tiring day.

We are offering the following tips:

Reminders for Motorists: 

• Slow down. Observe the speed limit in school zones at all times. Be aware of all Stop signs in front of and around schools. Drivers must come to a complete Stop and proceed with caution, looking out for pedestrians and bicyclists. 
• Be especially careful when driving on neighborhood streets and around school zones. Always expect the unexpected. Observe all traffic laws. Officers from the Torrance Police Department will be assigned to these areas to observe traffic violations and to enforce traffic laws. 
• Be alert for children walking and biking as you back out of your driveway or leave your garage. 
• Watch for children on bicycles, especially at intersections. 
• Stop your car when you see lights flashing on a school bus. Red flashing lights indicate that the bus is stopped and students are getting on or off. Don't start driving until the red lights stop flashing. Be aware that a child may dash across the street. 
• Motorists and parents need to pay attention to parking regulations in and adjacent to school facilities. Be aware of the following “no parking” signs, red zones, fire hydrants, blocking or stopping in disabled stalls, crosswalks, driveways and double parking. Torrance Police will be citing for violations.

Video cameras are used at all Torrance schools to record violations. Parking citations will then be mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle. You can help by NOT pickingup or dropping off in the following areas:

• Driveways
• Red Zones
• No Stopping Zones
• Double Parking
• Crosswalks/Intersections
• Handicapped Spaces

By following the suggestions above, we can work together to provide a safe environment for students while avoiding parking citations. Remember, wear your seatbelt, and have a safe school year.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians: 

• Always walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk and you have to walk in the road, always walk FACING traffic. 
• Wear bright colored clothing to increase visibility. 
• Cross only at corners or marked crosswalks. 
• Stop at the curb, or the edge of the road.