The school year is starting up again. Here's how to keep kids

Michael Howie

Many Northwest Indiana school districts begin the new school year this week. Several are already underway.

With a new school year comes new traffic patterns, new habits and new hazards. Here are some tips and laws, from the Valparaiso Police Department, for keeping yourself and children safe on the roads during the school day.

For drivers:

Slow down in school zones and residential areas. School zone speed limits are typically 20 mph.

Watch for children crossing streets, especially near schools and bus stops.

Stop for school buses when red lights are flashing. It is against the law to overtake or pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing.

Avoid distracted driving and put phones down when behind the wheel. It is against the law to hold or use a phone while opera