By Dennis McCaslin - Editor and Publisher
As the new school year kicks off across Fort Smith, the community is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. However, amidst the back-to-school preparations, there's an urgent reminder for all drivers: slowing down near crosswalks and school zones isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a necessity.
The return of students to classrooms brings a noticeable increase in foot traffic around schools, with children crossing streets on their way to and from school. These are the most vulnerable members of our community, and their safety depends largely on the caution exercised by drivers.
Statistics show that speeding in school zones is one of the leading causes of accidents involving pedestrians. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), even a slight reduction in speed can dramatically decrease the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a collision.
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle traveling at 20 mph, the chance of survival is nearly 90%. However, if the vehicle is going just 10 mph faster, the odds drop significantly.
Fort Smith Police Department is stepping up enforcement around school zones to ensure that drivers comply with posted speed limits. Officers will be on the lookout for those who ignore speed restrictions or fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Local schools are also doing their part by educating students on the importance of using designated crosswalks and being aware of their surroundings. But safety is a shared responsibility, and drivers play a crucial role in preventing accidents.
"Children can be unpredictable, especially when they’re excited about the first days of school," said the Fort Smith Police Department. "That’s why we’re asking everyone to be extra vigilant and to reduce their speed around schools and residential areas."
Parents, teachers, and school administrators are also encouraged to remind students about the importance of making eye contact with drivers before crossing the street and avoiding distractions such as smartphones when near traffic.
As we celebrate the return to school, let’s also commit to keeping our streets safe. By slowing down and being more attentive, we can ensure that every student makes it to class—and back home—safely.
For those of us behind the wheel, this is a simple and powerful way to contribute to the well-being of our community. Let’s make this school year a safe one for all.
