A “School Crossing” sign is similar to a regular pedestrian crossing sign but specifically indicates that the crossing is used by schoolchildren. It’s usually a pentagon-shaped sign (fluorescent yellow-green in modern signage, or yellow in older signs) with the image of two children (one often taller, leading the other) and sometimes with a horizontal line indicating a crosswalk. This sign is typically posted at a crosswalk that is actively used by students going to and from school.
When you see a School Crossing sign, you should:
Slow down and be prepared to stop. Children may be crossing the road at that crosswalk. They might be heading to school in the morning or leaving in the afternoon, but also consider lunch times or after-school activities.
Watch for children on either side of the road. They may be about to step into the crosswalk. Kids can also be distracted (talking to friends, etc.) and might not pay full attention to traffic, so you as the driver need to be extra vigilant.
Obey crossing guards. If there is a crossing guard managing that crosswalk, follow their signals. They often will step out with a stop sign to halt traffic when children need to cross.
Stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk. Legally, in most places, if pedestrians (children or otherwise) are in a crosswalk, drivers must yield/stop. With a school crossing, definitely stop well before the crosswalk when you see children entering it. Don’t proceed until they are completely out of your lane and on the curb.
Avoid blocking the crosswalk. If traffic is backed up, do not stop your car on the crosswalk.
Note that during school start/end times, you might see a lot of children. There could be a crossing guard even if no traffic light. At other times of day, the crossing might not be in use, but you should always be cautious in case someone is using it (some children might stay late for activities, etc.).
Sometimes there are flashing lights on school crossing signs that activate during school hours to really draw drivers’ attention.
In summary, when you see a school crossing sign, assume children will be crossing the street and adjust your driving accordingly: slow way down, prepare to stop, and yield to any pedestrians in the crosswalk. Safety is paramount, as children may not always judge car speeds accurately or may step out unexpectedly. It’s our job as drivers to anticipate and protect them.
