By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Lt. Dayton Gates with the Hutchinson Police Department reminds drivers that it's time to pay attention now that school is in session in USD 308, especially near the elementary school buildings.
"When it's posted, generally between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., that's a school zone for 20 miles per hour," Gates said. "You've got to make sure you watch your speed. We encourage everyone to be more observant in those school zones, as well, because kids can rush out into traffic without any notice."
The same applies in the afternoons during the times posted by the buildings, generally 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. It's also important to watch if you see a school bus along your route.
"When the red lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended, that means everyone on both sides of the trafficway have to stop," Gates said. "Wait until those lights are done flashing and the arm's put back in."
Violation of this law not only endangers children but is punishable by a fine and court costs in excess of $420.