Back to school means driver caution in school zones; speed limits to begin again in coming weeks

Matthew Draxton will have a story on NewsChannel 21 at Five.

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- With summer break coming to a close in the next few weeks for schools in Bend and across the High Desert, the city is reminding folks of the reimplementation of school zone speed limits.

Most Bend schools begin fall semester just after Labor Day, which means the start of modified school limits on roads around schools in order to increase student safety when traveling to and from schools.

Not all school speed zones are alike. Flashing lights were installed in the zones around several schools in recent years, advising drivers they need to slow down whenever they are flashing, during morning arrival and afternoon departure times. Others still have a set time of day for the required slow-down, or "when children are present."

Matthew Draxton is speaking to Bend Police on the laws surrounding school zone speed limits and what they're doing to remind folks. He'll also be speaking with Commute Options about the safety measures and education they're spreading among students to ensure safety for all at the start of the school year.

His report will be on NewsChannel 21 at Five.