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THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT “To Protect and Serve” Office of the Commissioner AAF Justice Complex, 5400 Veterans Drive St. Thomas, 00802 * (340) 774-2211 Administrative Services Building 45 Mars Hill, Frederiksted St. Croix, 00840 * (340) 778-2211 www.vipd.vi.gov VIOHS NEWS RELEASE - 081623-264 For Immediate Media Distribution August 16, 2023 Slow Down for a Safe School Zone: Speeding Hurts, Caution Works! U.S. Virgin Islands - The VI Office of Highway Safety and the VI Police Department urge motorists to prioritize safety and follow speed limits, especially during the back-to-school rush when roads are busy with students and pedestrians. Motorists should use the following tips to avoid speeding: • Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for your commute during peak school hours to avoid feeling rushed and tempted to speed. • Leave Early: Give yourself a buffer of time before your departure, so you can maintain a safe and steady pace on the road. • Follow School Zone Signs: Pay close attention to school zone signs and reduce your speed accordingly when approaching school areas. • Anticipate Traffic: Be prepared for increased traffic near schools and be patient with slower-moving vehicles. • Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on driving and avoid distractions like texting or adjusting your music, as they can lead to unintentional speeding and crashes. • Watch for Crossing Guards: Obey crossing guards’ instructions and slow down when approaching crosswalks. • Stay Mindful of Children: Be aware that children might dart into the road unexpectedly. • Be Courteous: Show respect to pedestrians and fellow motorists by driving responsibly and with consideration. • Lead by Example: As a driver, be a role model for others, especially young and inexperienced drivers, by obeying speed limits and traffic rules. Speeding not only endangers the lives of pedestrians and other road users, but also leads to traffic violations and fines. By following these tips, drivers can create a safe environment for students and pedestrians during the back-to-school season and throughout the year. It is not only about getting to the destination quickly; it is about arriving safely. Slow down and drive with caution for a safer community. For more information or to request a traffic safety presentation, contact the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety through Director Daphne O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov or Law Enforcement Liaison LaShaunda Mobley at lashaunda.mobley@vipd.vi.gov. -------- END --------