Baton Rouge, LA – As the new school year begins across Louisiana, state police are urging all motorists to exercise extra caution in school zones and near school buses to ensure the safety of children and fellow drivers.
According to a statewide release from Louisiana State Police on Wednesday, authorities are reminding drivers to strictly obey school crossing guards, adhere to reduced speed limits in marked school zones, and comply with Louisiana’s updated hands-free driving law. The law, which now applies to all public roadways, prohibits any driver—regardless of age—from using a handheld cell phone to call, text, or access social media while operating a vehicle.
Louisiana State Police stressed that staying focused and minimizing distractions are essential for preventing crashes and protecting students. The department also emphasized that all drivers must stop for school buses when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, requiring vehicles to halt at least 30 feet away from the bus until students have safely boarded or exited and the bus moves again.
State officials reminded caregivers that Louisiana law requires children under 13 to ride in the back seat whenever possible. Rear-facing car seats should be used for younger children until at least age two, while forward-facing seats with internal harnesses should be used as long as possible—typically up to 65 pounds.
For questions on child seat safety or for help with installation, certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians are available at local Louisiana State Police offices free of charge.
Authorities encouraged all drivers to recommit to safe driving habits, especially during the busy back-to-school period. More information is available on the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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