OLD TOWN, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- Switching into back-to-school mode can be hectic for families. New teachers, homework and getting to school on time. But law enforcement and bus companies are reminding drivers to be extra careful on the road.
It's been a couple months since we've seen the yellow buses out on the roads, and that means, drivers may need a little extra time to get to work in the morning. It's a nationwide issue - vehicles speeding by a stopped school bus with its red lights on, either picking up children or dropping them off from school.
Law enforcement is asking drivers to slow down and pay attention. To help avoid any injuries, parents are also encouraged to talk to their children about looking both ways when crossing the street. While school has only been in session for a few days, Orono Police Chief Josh Ewing has already heard some complaints.
"People are distracted in some way, maybe by their phone or by being in a hurry. They seem to be approaching the crosswalks too fast and not knowing someone might be on that crosswalk, so that's what we are hearing already. We are worried about people crossing safely," said Ewing.
If you pass a stopped school bus with its red flashing lights, you've committed a crime, and you could be fined or arrested. If the driver isn't caught, but police track down your car, you could get a $300 ticket. If you're caught speeding in a school zone, you could face fines ranging from $260 to as high as $500, depending on how fast you were going.
