NEWS RELEASE AAA Northeast, Community Partners Hold…

NEWS RELEASE

AAA Northeast, Community Partners Hold School’s Open, Drive Carefully Event at Utica Elementary School

UTICA, N.Y. , Sept. 13, 2024 — With schools across New York back in session, AAA Northeast joined with local officials and traffic safety partners this week to urge drivers to use extra caution and follow traffic laws in and around school zones to ensure students arrive at school safely.

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, Utica Mayor Michael Galime and Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville joined AAA Northeast at Watson Williams Elementary School to gather with students and put a spotlight on safety.

“Children have returned to schools across the state. It is especially important that all drivers are alert, as many children walk or bike to school. Please slow down, allow yourself more time to get to your destination, stop for school buses when red lights are flashing, stay off your phone and other devices, yield for pedestrians in crosswalks, obey crossing guards and exercise patience,” said Sheriff Maciol. “Police departments will have increased patrols on traffic safety and conducting enforcement, when necessary, especially in school zones.”

“The opportunity to engage with students to ensure they both understand and think about their safety while crossing streets, boarding buses, and enjoying their time outside was truly enjoyed, and their interest in listening to our panel was inspiring,” said Mayor Galime.

The School’s Open, Drive Carefully campaign is a critical reminder for drivers to use caution when driving around schools and to stop for school buses with red flashing lights. Every day, 23 million New York students ride on school buses. But an estimated 50,000 vehicles illegally pass school buses in New York every day, putting students at risk, according to the New York Association for Pupil Transportation.

“AAA is reminding drivers to be aware of increased traffic around school zones, including pedestrians and bicyclists making their way to and from school,” said Patti Artessa, Director of Public Affairs Outreach, AAA Northeast. “Kids are particularly vulnerable because they are small and less visible to drivers and can be easily distracted when around other kids. AAA’s School’s Open, Drive Carefully campaign is more important than ever due to the prevalence of drivers with smartphones and the increase in distracted driving on our roads.”

“I want to thank AAA for reminding us all of the importance of stopping for all school buses as they are loading and discharging students,” said Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon. “Our children’s safety is a priority!”