Crime & Safety

Belmont Police Remind Residents of School Year Driving Tips

Much like the popular insurance commercial: Slow down, stop at buses, don't idling, wear a helmet, follow the parking rules, put the cell phone away.

With the new school year starting this week, there will be many children walking and riding bicycles to and from school.

And while Belmont has many experienced crossing guards on duty to help students cross the street safely, Belmont Police Sgt. Benjamin Mailhot of the Traffic & Records division asks that motorists pay attention to them when they are stopping or starting traffic.

• In order to keep kids safe, please remember to slow down and obey the School Zone Speed Limit of 20 mph.

• Operators of motor vehicles must stop, in both directions of the road, for school busses with flashing red lights and/or stop sign displayed.

• When dropping off or picking up students, drivers are reminded that the all of the Belmont Public Schools have posted anti-idling signs and idling over five minutes is a violation.  

• BPD also asks that all drivers obey the parking restrictions and school traffic plans for their school.

• Students who ride bicycles should have a properly-fitted bicycle helmet and a lock to secure their bicycle once they get to school.

• Belmont High School students who drive to school are reminded to follow all Junior Operator License rules and also remember that cell phone use of any kind (calling, texting, tweeting, etc.), including the use of hands free or Bluetooth devices, is prohibited for drivers under 18.  

• All drivers, both students and parents alike, please remember that texting and driving is unlawful in Massachusetts.


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