LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — As schools in Central Arkansas prepare to reopen on Monday, residents are being warned to brace for increased traffic congestion. The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) has issued reminders and warnings, particularly for new drivers, as the roads are expected to be busier than they have been during the summer months.
“We’re going to have potentially, you know, half million kids going back to school in the next couple of weeks, combined with the return of college,” said Dave Parker, spokesperson for ARDOT. “A lot of people hitting the road that may not have been doing that during summer break, summer vacation. So it’s probably the time of the year that you really need the most aware, not only of the laws and everything and the rules that apply to schools, but just general awareness and really putting the phone down, don’t be distracted. Be on the lookout for your safety as well as everyone else’s.”
Parker emphasized the importance of being observant and understanding road rules, especially with the influx of new drivers. “Definitely be observant of the road and who’s driving, who’s around you and what you’re doing. So just to know what to expect in certain situations. Definitely read the handbook to understand what to do,” he said…