TAMPA, Fla. — With students back in class, AAA is urging Florida drivers to be extra cautious on the roads. Traffic is expected to increase significantly.
AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins advises drivers to budget an extra half-hour for their morning commute to avoid rushing, which can lead to dangerous driving behaviors.
“This is a time when there’s a lot of excitement, a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of nerves too," Jenkins said. "Some people are learning new traffic patterns, maybe not have walked to school or the bus stop before. They might not know the rules of the road. So extremely important for drivers to be watching and be ready for anything out there."
According to a recent AAA survey, more than half of Floridians regularly drive through school zones or pass school bus stops during their daily commute. With school zones and bus stops having been inactive over the summer, drivers will need to adjust their habits, slow down, and stay alert for young students who may not be paying attention to traffic.
“Oftentimes it’s those people who are in a big rush in the morning who take those unnecessary risks, it might be speeding or just not paying attention, that’s how bad things can happen,” Jenkins said.
The survey also revealed some concerning statistics: 36% of drivers admitted to speeding in active school zones, and 27% admitted to using their handheld cell phones while driving through these areas. “Remember, in Florida, it’s illegal to use a handheld mobile device in an active school zone,” Jenkins said.
AAA reports both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for safety. Nationwide, nearly one in five children under 14 who die in traffic crashes are pedestrians.
AAA encourages parents to talk to their children about staying safe by avoiding distractions like earbuds and digital devices when near traffic lanes.
AAA also offers these safety tips:
- For pedestrians: Stay alert, avoid distractions, and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
- For bicyclists: Wear a helmet, bright clothing, and ride with traffic.
- For students at bus stops: Arrive early, stay back from the curb, and wait for the drive