Police ask drivers to take it slow when in school zones
Rushing, distracted commuters account for most accidents, sergeant says
By Michelle Knight knight@theacorn.com

Camarillo police report there have been no traffic fatalities this year.

"Probably the best news in the whole city," Sgt. Harold Hanley said . . . is that no one has died due to a traffic collision so far this year.

By this time last year, four people had lost their lives in traffic accidents, he said. The total number for 2006 was five, including an infant in a van hit by a drunk driver.

Hanley said although no one has lost their life in a traffic collision, there have been "horrendous crashes." He said the most common collision involves rightofway violations, with people not paying attention to oncoming traffic when making a left turn.

Police are posting radar trailers along streets to remind drivers to slow down. And a local business owner is helping to get the word out about safety around schools.

Patrick Walton, owner of Camarillo Car Care Center, is joining AAA's School's OpenDrive Carefully campaign by displaying the association's posters in his repair shop.

But Walton, the father of a 6year-old, wanted to take it a step further. He's including safety tips for motorists and parents in his newspaper advertisements.

"We thought it would be responsible for us to do such in our advertising," Walton said. "This is important to me."

He felt compelled to do more after a friend told him he was almost hit by a car while he and his 6-year-old daughter were in a crosswalk on their way to school. Walton said he understands people are in a hurry, but being cautious when driving could mean the difference between life or death.

"Time is time and I understand that but . . . we need to calm down and take a breath," Walton said.

AAA's School's Open-Drive Carefully tips for drivers: Slow down near schools and residential areas.

•Look for signs children are near, such as bicycles, crossing guards and playgrounds.

•Scan for children between parked cars or other objects.

•Never pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing. Safety tips for parents:

•Park on the same side of the street as the school and load and unload children at curbside.

•Carpool to reduce traffic at schools or bus stops.

•Ask school officials to designate a pick up and drop off area.

•If your child walks to school, walk with them several times to familiarize them with traffic hazards along the route.

•Always practice safe walking habits.

•Never stop in crosswalks, double-park or block visibility for children or drivers.