Students are heading back to school, and officials are reminding drivers to stay alert as buses return to the roads and more children walk to and from class.
AAA says more school bus tickets were issued in September than in any other month last year, with October close behind, according to DMV data.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says school buses remain the safest way for students to travel to school.
Officials are reminding drivers never to pass a stopped school bus when its red lights are flashing.
Those flashing red lights mean students are getting on or off the bus and traffic must stop.
When a school bus has flashing yellow lights, drivers should slow down and prepare to stop.
Motorists are also urged to watch for children crossing in front of buses and in school zones.
Officials say drivers should avoid using electronic devices behind the wheel and remain alert during school commute hours.
Parents are encouraged to accompany children under 10 years old when walking to school and make sure they use sidewalks whenever possible.
Drivers should also keep in mind that school-related traffic can begin as early as 7 a.m. and continue into the evening with after-school activities.