Back-to-School Traffic in El Paso: What Parents and Drivers Need to Know to Prevent Car Accidents

When school starts back up, there are numerous things for families to consider and plan for to ensure success. Aside from school supplies, new clothes, and enrolling in endless programs, it is also a time when kids are back on the sidewalks walking to and from practice and home. As a parent or driver, it is crucial to ensure that your family is protected while on the road.

At Flores Mendez Law, our El Paso car accident lawyer is ready to help you in any situation that arises. Schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your situation with us.

Going Back to School and Traffic Risks

September is typically the start of the school year in the area, which means roads change. Buses are everywhere, school zones tend to clog up the commute to and from work, and you could be faced with frustrated and distracted parents on the road. Even more overwhelming can be teen drivers who are just now getting into the groove of driving to school.

This leads to risks. Data from the Texas Department of Transportation indicate that over 2,000 school bus crashes occur in Texas annually. Many of these result in serious injuries. No one wants to be on that side of an accident.

What you do as you commute to and from work or school, then, especially on I-10 and US 54, can be critical to avoiding accidents and safeguarding everyone on their way to and from the day’s tasks. Though our legal team is the El Paso school zone accident lawyer you need, we offer some suggestions here to help you avoid having to contact us.

Common Causes of Back-to-School Accidents

It is not uncommon for car accidents to occur across the city when school resumes. The shift in everyone’s schedule, traffic changes, and a renewed sense of “hurry” can all impact what happens every day on the roadways. Some of the most common causes for back-to-school accidents include:

• Speeding in school zones, whether intentionally or due to a lack of noticing them.
• Distracted driving, including the use of phones behind the wheel, eating or drinking, or applying makeup.
• Failure to stop for school buses, especially those making frequent stops on the way to and from school.
• Blind spots on buses that make it hard for them to see you.
• New drivers and congested streets often lead to aggressive and reckless driving.

As you head back to school or navigate busier-than-usual roadways, it helps to slow down and take more time to make your trip possible. Spend the necessary time taking off routes that may be longer in distance but less risky and worrisome during commutes. Most importantly, know where schools are and when those pickups happen to avoid those times when possible.

What to Do If Your Child Is Injured in a School Zone Accident

Texas school zone car accidents can be devastating for families. You may be unsure what your rights are after your child has been struck. Your priority after such an incident should be to receive medical care and follow up. But, then, consider these steps to help you seek fair compensation:

• Ensure the school is informed about the accident. Request an investigation into what happened, especially if a crossing guard was present.
• Inform the police by filing a police report if they did not respond to the accident.
• Gather information from the scene if you were present, or speak to those who witnessed the accident to obtain their account.
• Then, contact an El Paso car accident lawyer. If your child has serious injuries, it is always important to seek legal guidance as you pursue recovery of your damages.

Local School Zone Safety Laws in El Paso and Texas: Penalties for Violations

Everyone on the roadway must take steps to keep others safe, and that means abiding by all school zone laws. In El Paso, drivers must reduce their speed to 20 miles per hour during active school hours or school zone hours. This may differ for each school. Flashing signs may be present. Drivers must stop and wait for stopped school buses displaying flashing red lights or when the stop sign arm is extended. Do not go around a bus.

The fines and consequences for violations are significant. That includes higher fees than for traditional speeding or violations. Those using a cell phone in a school zone may face a minimum fine of $200 for a first offense. If you pass a school bus illegally, it can result in a fine of $ 1,250 for the first offense.

FAQs About Back-to-School Accidents In El Paso, Texas

What are some prohibited activities in Texas school zones?

Not only must you obey the speed limit, but there are also certain activities that are banned while driving in a school zone. That includes the use of their cell phone while behind the wheel. You also cannot switch lanes in a school zone.

What should I do if I am in a car crash in a school zone?

Move your vehicle to the side of the road or into an area parking lot out of the way. Call 911 to request police and medical care. Then, document the incident, including photos to demonstrate what your losses are.

Who is liable for a school zone accident?

Numerous factors play a role in this, but it could be the driver, the city if it failed to make the school zone visible, or other parties.

An Experienced El Paso Car Accident Lawyer at Flores Mendez Law Can Help

At Flores Mendez Law, our skilled El Paso car accident lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step after a serious crash. We help families prove fault, demonstrate losses, and fight for the maximum compensation available under the law. Call us today at 915-308-9999 or contact us online for a free consultation. With offices in El Paso, Texas, and Las Cruces, New Mexico, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding communities.