Cars speeding through school zones is a concern for parents.

Ray Pedraza, a spokesman for the Texas Department of Transportation, said there were more than 43 car crashes in school zones in 2022 in the Pharr district — which covers the four Rio Grande Valley counties and the four neighboring counties.

Of those crashes, half were in the Valley.

“The most common causes of crashes were drivers speeding," Pedraza said. “If you are sharing the road with a school bus, always make sure to follow at a safe distance, and keep in mind buses do make frequent stops."

With the new school year approaching, Pedraza is reminding drivers to follow the speed limit, especially in school zones.

He also reminds drivers to stop when a bus is flashing red lights or face a hefty fine.

“Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to $1,250 for the first offense,” Pedraza said.

Other reminders include slowing down when approaching a sidewalk, and for pedestrians to make sure the drivers see them before crossing the street.

“If a sidewalk is not available, utilize the left side of the road facing traffic,” Pedraza said. “Cross the street only at intersections and marked crosswalks."

TxDOT also urges parents to not drop off their children in the middle of the road, and to drop them off at a school safe zone instead.

Two other common causes of crashes in school zones are driver inattention and failure to yield the right of way.

Things to keep in mind with the new school year right around the corner.

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