Back-To-School, Back To Traffic: What Every Florida Driver Needs To Watch For This Month

As Florida families gear up for a new school year, it’s not just backpacks, pencils, and supply lists making a return—school traffic is back in full swing. And with it, comes an increase in potential hazards on the road. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it may be in your best interest to discuss your situation with a Tampa, FL car accident lawyer.

At Mickey Keenan P.A., we see firsthand how back-to-school season leads to a spike in preventable accidents. Our mission is to help Florida drivers understand the risks, follow the rules, and protect the most vulnerable members of our community—our children.

When you’re behind the wheel this month, remember: Slow down, stay alert, and drive like every kid is your own.

School Zones Are Back In Effect — And They’re Strictly Enforced

Those blinking yellow lights that seemed irrelevant over the summer? They’re active again. School zones are legally enforced during posted hours, typically mornings and afternoons when students are arriving or leaving campus.

According to Florida Statutes §316.1895, fines for speeding in a school zone range from $50 to $500—and penalties are higher if you’re caught on multiple occasions or if your actions put a child in danger.

Safety tip: Even 5 mph over the limit can double your stopping distance, making it much harder to avoid hitting a pedestrian or bicyclist (NHTSA).

Pro move: Enter school zones already at the posted limit. Don’t wait until you see flashing lights or crossing guards to slow down.

Expect More Stops — And Know The Law For School Buses

As school resumes, buses will be making frequent stops to pick up and drop off students.

Under Florida Statutes §316.172, all drivers must stop when a school bus extends its stop arm and flashes its red lights, unless you are on the opposite side of a divided highway with an unpaved space, raised median, or physical barrier.

First offense fine: Up to $400
Second offense within 5 years: $1,000 and license suspension for up to 6 months
If a child is injured: Potential criminal charges

FLHSMV emphasizes that passing a stopped school bus is one of the most dangerous driving violations—it puts children at risk as they cross streets they assume are safe.

Watch for Kids on Foot and Bike — They May Not Watch for You

Crosswalks, sidewalks, and bike lanes near schools and neighborhoods will be busy again. Children can be unpredictable, and younger ones often:

Run into the street without looking
Ride bikes against traffic
Misjudge how fast cars are approaching

According to the CDC, 1 in 5 children under 15 killed in traffic crashes are pedestrians.

Defensive driving tips:

Reduce speed near parks, playgrounds, and community centers
Avoid passing other vehicles stopped at crosswalks—there may be a pedestrian crossing you can’t see
Give cyclists at least 3 feet of clearance when passing (Florida Statutes §316.083)

Rush Hour Just Got More Complicated

In August and September, your morning and afternoon commutes will face new challenges:

School drop-offs and pick-ups with long lines and impatient drivers
After-school sports and activities increasing traffic in the early evening
Teen drivers—often inexperienced and easily distracted—joining the mix

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, crash rates among teen drivers spike during the school year, especially before and after school.

How to adapt:

Add 10–15 minutes to your commute to avoid rushing
Use alternate routes that avoid school zones during drop-off/pick-up times
Stay alert for sudden stops, especially in residential areas

Eliminate Distractions — Especially in School Zones

Florida’s Wireless Communications While Driving Law bans texting while driving and prohibits any handheld phone use in school zones. A violation here is a moving offense with points added to your license.

Practical habits:

Activate “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode
Place your phone in the glovebox or back seat
Program your GPS before leaving

Even a glance at your phone can result in missing a child stepping off a curb.

Weather And Lighting Changes In Early School Months

In August and September, morning sun glare and afternoon thunderstorms are common in Florida, making driving conditions tricky:

Sun glare can temporarily blind drivers approaching east-facing school zones
Wet roads increase stopping distances, especially when school buses brake suddenly
Lightning and heavy rain reduce visibility—slow down and turn on headlights (Florida Statutes §316.217)

What To Do If You’re Involved In A School Zone Accident

If you’re in a crash in or near a school zone:

Call 911 and get medical help immediately
Stay at the scene until authorities arrive—leaving could lead to criminal charges
Document everything with photos, videos, and witness statements
Exchange insurance and contact info with other parties
Notify your insurance company promptly
Contact a personal injury attorney experienced in Florida school zone accidents

At Mickey Keenan P.A., we fight to ensure accident victims aren’t pressured into accepting unfair settlements from insurance companies.

Community Responsibility — It’s More Than Just The Law

Driving safely in school zones isn’t just about avoiding tickets, it’s about protecting children, families, and the sense of security in our neighborhoods. When we all:

Follow posted speed limits
Stop for school buses
Stay alert at crosswalks
We help create a safer environment for everyone.

Your choices behind the wheel shape your community. Let’s make them count.

Let’s Protect Our Kids Together

When Florida drivers take back-to-school safety seriously, the result is fewer accidents, fewer injuries, and more peace of mind. This school year, commit to slowing down, eliminating distractions, and giving kids the space and safety they deserve.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a back-to-school traffic accident, contact Mickey Keenan P.A. today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.