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State Police: "School's Open - Drive Carefully' Campaign Starts Tuesday

The New York State Police from Troop K urge motorists to support AAA's annual "School’s Open -- Drive Carefully" campaign, to help kids safe as they travel to and from school.

State police are teaming up with AAA to promote mindful driving, to keep students safe.

State police are teaming up with AAA to promote mindful driving, to keep students safe.

Photo Credit: New York State Police

AAA's yearly campaign alerts motorists to the special risks to school-age children from motor vehicle crashes -- the leading cause of death for children from 5 to 14 years old. The campaign begins Sept. 6 and ends Oct. 14.

"As the school year starts once again, the New York State Police remind motorists to be on the lookout for children boarding buses and walking to and from school," said State Police Superintendent George Beach II.

"Please, drive carefully and be especially aware of school speed zones, school bus traffic and children walking."

Major Robert Nuzzo stated, "As schools from the Columbia, Dutchess, Putnam and Westchester Counties open their doors this September, we encourage everyone -- motorists, parents and students -- to be aware of their traffic safety practices. Slow down, be alert and avoid in-car distractions so children can make it to school and home safe to their families."

Drivers will receive an extra reminder each time they see one of the "School's Open" bumper stickers on state police vehicles, as well as other official vehicles, school buses and passenger cars.

State police also emphasize the need to show extra caution when driving as schools reopen, since vacation-minded children may be less careful. Drivers should be particularly alert for children darting out between parked cars on busy streets.

AAA New York's "School's Open -- Drive Carefully" program began in 1945 -- and the very first one began in Missouri, in 1933.

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