CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – During the first week of school, the Clarksville Police Department (CPD) monitored school zones and bus routes to watch for violations.

CPD spokesman Jim Knoll said officers saw many drivers who were using their phones in school zones when the lights were flashing instead of going hands-free. He also said many drivers were stopped for texting and driving, and others ignored crossing guards.

Traffic in these areas is likely to remain congested throughout the school year and drivers are urged to follow the rules of the road to ensure the safety of students.

SCHOOL ZONE LAWS
School Zones are marked with lights or traffic signs – drivers need to be alert, monitor their speed and do not be a distracted driver.

All school zones have a 20 MPH speed limit unless otherwise posted. Speeding in a school zone could result in a reckless driving charge, a fine of $274.50 and, points on your license. School bus violations carry a fine between $250 and $1,000 for not stopping for a stopped school bus. The typical fine is $469.50 and points on your license.

• NOTE: The School Zone reduced speed lights will be flashing on the “full day” schedule. The speed lights are not adjusted on half day schedules so be aware when schools are released on half days, the lights will not warn you to reduce speed.
• (1) It is an offense for a person to knowingly operate a motor vehicle in any marked school zone in this state, when a warning flasher or flashers are in operation, and talk on a hand-held mobile telephone while the vehicle is in motion.
• (2) It is a delinquent act for a person under eighteen (18) years of age to knowingly operate a motor vehicle on any road or highway in this state and talk on a mobile telephone that is equipped with a hands-free device while the vehicle is in motion.
• (3) This section does not prohibit a person eighteen (18) years of age or older from operating a motor vehicle in any marked school zone in this state, when a warning flasher or flashers are in operation, and talking on a mobile telephone that is equipped with a hands-free device while the vehicle is in motion.