Texas DPS Urges Driver Safety as Students Return to School

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Department of Public Safety is reminding Texans to exercise caution as students return to school, urging drivers, parents and students to follow safety measures designed to protect children throughout the school year.

“As students head back to school, we’re asking every driver to make safety their top priority," Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said. "Slow down, eliminate distractions and remain alert—especially in school zones, at bus stops and in high-volume traffic areas. Every child deserves to arrive at school and return home safely, and that starts with each of us making responsible decisions behind the wheel."

DPS encouraged motorists to remain alert in school zones, watch for children walking and riding bicycles, obey crossing guards and avoid blocking crosswalks. Drivers are also reminded to reduce speed near school buses and railroad crossings and to comply with Texas laws requiring vehicles to stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights, unless the roadway is divided by a physical barrier.

According to DPS, drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus can face fines of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Repeat offenders may have their driver's licenses suspended for up to six months, and criminal charges are possible if serious bodily injury results.

The agency also reminded motorists that texting while driving is illegal in Texas and urged drivers to obey all posted speed limits in school zones.

Beyond traffic safety, DPS encouraged families to prepare for emergencies by ensuring schools have updated emergency contact information, keeping a current photo of each child, discussing emergency procedures such as fire, tornado and lockdown drills, and reminding children not to accept rides from strangers.

Parents are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with their school's safety procedures and identify trusted adults on campus whom children can contact if they need assistance.

DPS highlighted several school safety resources available to Texans, including the iWatchTexas program, which allows confidential reporting of suspicious activity through a mobile app, website or by phone. Officials emphasized that emergencies should still be reported by calling 911.

The agency also pointed families to the Texas School Safety Center, which provides school safety training, technical assistance and educational resources, and reminded the public about the state's Active Shooter Alert System, which can notify people near an active shooter incident through cell phones, broadcast media and Texas Department of Transportation message signs.

DPS officials said the department's Safety Education Service officers continue to provide presentations at schools on topics including traffic safety, drug prevention, underage drinking and situational awareness.