The Department of Public Safety offers these tips for back-to-school safety:

• Give students extra room and don’t assume they are paying attention to traffic. Students are frequently distracted by mobile devices or listening on electronic devices and may not be paying attention to their surroundings.
• Don’t block a crosswalk when stopped at a red light or stop sign.
• Follow the directions of crossing guards.
• Watch for children on bicycles traveling to and from schools.
• Reduce your speed when you spot a school bus and know children may unexpectedly step into the road without checking for traffic.
• School buses are legally required to stop at railroad crossings.
• Know the laws regarding school buses. According to Texas law, if a bus has alternating flashing red signals visible from the front or rear, drivers MUST stop before reaching the bus. Drivers can only proceed if the flashing lights are no longer activated, the driver signals you to proceed or the bus has resumed driving. Drivers who illegally pass a school bus face fines up to $1,250 for the first offense.
• Always obey speed limits and traffic laws in school zones.
  •Remember, texting while driving is illegal in Texas.