Both the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and Gardai have appealed to all road users to take greater care as thousands of children across Donegal return to school.
Over the next few days and weeks the roads will be busier with school buses, school bound cars and pedestrians.
“We wish to appeal to all road users to please have a little patience until everyone settles back into a routine once more,” a garda spokesperson said.
“This is a happy but stressful time for parents, kids and teachers, but it is also a time when safety is a priority, both in the classroom and also on the journey to and from school.”
Motorists are being urged to slow down, especially when approaching a school. Abide by the rules of the road and expect the unexpected at all times!
“Please do not park illegally when doing school drop offs or pick ups. Follow school traffic management plans that may now be in place. They have been put in place to ensure the safety of all attending and approaching the school. Leave a little extra time for your journey as delays may be expected.”
Parents are also being asked to talk to their children about topics such as safety when they are getting on or off the school bus, safety when they are crossing roads, the importance of wearing a seatbelt and about how to stay safe and be seen as a pedestrian.