Sheriff, GPD have message for motorists as school nears

As families begin to make last minute preparations ahead of the first day of school next week, local law enforcement officials are reminding motorists to watch their speed and be aware of buses and pedestrians. 

Putnam County Sheriff Jerrod Baugh said his first complaint he always hears about from citizens is people running school bus stopping arms. 

"We take a zero policy on it. Everybody can be distracted, so it can happen. It is one of those things we work with the schools on with the video cameras on the busses and we follow the school buses. The judges are on board if they get good information on it and we prove our case. We need those people to pay attention. If that red stop arm comes out, do us all a favor and just stop. Everyone will get to where they are going," Baugh told The Putnam County Post. 

Baugh said one thing motorists can do is put the cell phone away. 

"It's a distraction and there is a law against it," Baugh said. 

Another issue, according to Baugh, is speed.

"Speed is the number one cause of accidents in the state. We will be doing increased enforcements before and after school in school areas. We get a lot of complaints of people driving too fast in school zones," Baugh said. 

Greencastle Police Assistant Chief Ed Wilson also is urging motorists within the city of Greencastle to exercise caution. 

"Residents need to be aware of buses and student drivers. Be aware of possible delays in time or earlier pickups due to construction. Also, watch out for walking students," Wilson said.