The problem escalates during the months children are in school. Children are vulnerable for several reasons:

·        They are small and less visible to motorists.

·        It’s more difficult for children to judge traffic situations, because their peripheral vision is one-third narrower than an adult’s.

·        Children do not always possess the capability to make sound judgments.

·        Children can be easily distracted, especially when around other children.

·        IPODs and other personal music devices reduce the ability to hear traffic sounds.

In short, children are not adults - and it's up to drivers to compensate for these differences.

To help protect children, the Rock Island Police Department urges motorists to follow these safety tips:

 ·        Slow down near schools and in residential areas - slower speeds buy reaction and stopping time for the driver.

·        Drive with your headlights on - even during the day - so children and other drivers can see you. Illinois law requires the use of headlights while windshield wipers are operating.

·        Look for clues such as School Zone signs, bicycles, and playgrounds that indicate children could be in the area.

·        Scan between parked cars and other objects for signs of children. If you see a ball roll onto the street, rest assured a child could be close behind.

·        Practice extra caution in bad weather.

·        Always stop for school buses that are loading or unloading students. Even when police are not present, school bus drivers may report the violation of passing the bus when the stop arm is extended.

In order to enhance safety and encourage speed reduction awareness, in and around schools, the Rock Island Police will be conducting special speed enforcement details in school zone areas: 

 ·        Officers will be utilizing LIDAR - which enables officers to pinpoint the location of the violator to determine if the violation occurred within a school zone while children were present.

·        Speed enforcement - speed limit within a school zone is 20 MPH when children are present.

·        Officers will enforce laws pertaining to the use of cellular phones.