February on Our Roads: Protecting School Zones and Preventing Impaired Driving

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Fairfax County, VA – Keeping our roadways safe is a shared responsibility, and throughout February, the Fairfax County Police Department is focusing on two key traffic safety priorities: school zone enforcement and impaired driving prevention.

Our goal is to reduce fatal crashes by increasing community awareness, encouraging safe driving habits, and proactively enforcing traffic laws. As winter conditions linger and traffic patterns shift, officers will be highly visible in areas where safety risks are greatest.

School Zone Enforcement Month

February marks School Zone Enforcement Month, with a month-long focus on protecting students, pedestrians, and families during school travel times. Officers will be conducting targeted enforcement near schools, crosswalks, and bus routes throughout the county.

Enforcement efforts will focus on:

  • Speeding in school speed zones
  • Pedestrian safety violations
  • Passing a stopped school bus

Passing a stopped school bus remains one of the most dangerous violations we see. Drivers are reminded that stopping for a school bus with flashing red lights is the law, and violations can result in serious penalties under Virginia Code.

As we continue to experience lingering ice and snow in some neighborhoods, families may see temporary adjustments to bus stops or altered walking patterns. These changes make it even more important for drivers to slow down, stay alert, and expect the unexpected in school areas.

Recent School Zone and Bus Enforcement Efforts

Our officers have been actively enforcing school zone safety and stopping violations involving school buses. Below are recent videos highlighting these efforts and why they matter.

These videos serve as an important reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn dangerous when drivers are distracted or speeding.

Impaired Driving Enforcement During Super Bowl Weekend

While school zone safety remains the primary focus this month, officers will also place additional emphasis on impaired driving enforcement during Super Bowl weekend.

Super Bowl celebrations often involve alcohol, and impaired driving remains one of the leading causes of serious and fatal crashes. Officers will be out proactively looking for impaired drivers to keep everyone safe.

Fans don’t let fans drive drunk. Planning ahead, choosing a sober driver, using rideshare services, or arranging a safe ride home can save lives.

A dedicated Super Bowl safety tips blog will be shared later this week with more information and reminders for game day.

A Reminder for All Drivers

Whether you’re driving through a school zone, passing a bus stop, or heading out to watch the big game, small choices behind the wheel make a big difference.

Slow down in school areas.
Stop for school buses.
Never drive impaired.

Together, we can make February a safer month on our roads and in our neighborhoods.

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For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook, and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.