With back-to-school season here, August is Child Safety Awareness Month, reminding drivers to remain vigilant and careful as streets begin filling with students.
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) launched its child safety campaign to encourage Florida motorists, parents, caregivers and children to “Know Their Zone” and stay aware of safety areas around school buses, school zones and neighborhoods.
FLHSMV, along with the Florida Highway Patrol and other public safety partners across the state, is emphasizing the importance of proper safety precautions drivers can take to help keep children safe at bus stops, while walking on sidewalks and when riding bicycles in bike lanes.
"With that success comes a shared responsibility to protect the children who represent our state's future. As the school year begins, every motorist plays a critical role in ensuring students can travel safely to and from the classroom," said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner.
Beyond staying alert in school zones, FLHSMV is also reminding drivers to use proper child restraints and ensure children are wearing seat belts.
House Bill 657 and Senate Bill 766 created Florida statutes allowing local jurisdictions to implement and operate school zone speed detection systems and school bus passing infraction detection systems.
Speeding is the most common traffic violation affecting school and child safety, according to FLHSMV. In 2025, more than 54,000 unlawful speeding citations were issued in work or school zones.
"Florida Highway Patrol troopers see firsthand the impact that speeding, distraction and unsafe decisions can have on our communities, especially around schools and school buses. As students return to class, we urge all motorists to Know Their Zone, put safety first and stay vigilant," said FHP Colonel Gary Howze.
Passing a stopped school bus on the left side is a minimum $200 fine in Florida. A second offense within five years can result in a driver’s license suspension of up to one year.
FLHSMV said passing a stopped school bus on the right side carries a minimum $400 fine and requires a mandatory court hearing, which may result in points being added to a driver’s license. A second offense within five years can lead to a license suspension of up to two years.
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay said child safety measures extend beyond drivers and include preparation from parents and caregivers.
"We have parents concerned about safety, so we talk to families around gun-related safety and making sure if your child is a walker, they know the route and what to do when someone approaches them. For bus riders, the kids are behaving appropriately on the bus," said Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay.
Staying aware of surroundings, remaining focused, following traffic laws and practicing patience can help keep children safe throughout the school year.