What considerations must a driver take when approaching a school zone under Title 21?

When approaching a school zone, it is crucial for drivers to reduce speed and remain vigilant for pedestrians. This is particularly important as school zones often have higher foot traffic, including young children who may be crossing the street or walking near the roadway. Reducing speed enhances the driver's ability to stop quickly if necessary, thereby decreasing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, being attentive to pedestrians means that drivers are actively watching for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway, which is a common occurrence in school areas. It is also standard practice in many jurisdictions to post reduced speed limits in school zones, further emphasizing the need for drivers to decrease their speed.

In contrast, maintaining speed does not prioritize safety and is inappropriate in a setting where children may be present. Merely watching for pedestrian signals does not account for all possible hazards, such as children who may not adhere to those signals. Speeding up to pass quickly poses a significant danger, as it increases the likelihood of missing a child entering the crosswalk or the road unexpectedly. Therefore, reducing speed and watching for pedestrians aligns with the essential safety considerations drivers must embrace when navigating school zones.