22 Student Fatalities Prompt Polk County to Issue Crosswalk Safety Warning

The Polk County Sheriff's Office has issued a stark reminder to the community following the tragic deaths of 22 students during their commutes last school year. As the new academic year approaches, the Sheriff's Office is urging everyone to remain vigilant, emphasizing that ensuring the safety of children is a collective responsibility.

"Even though you may not have children who attend school, it is still ALL of our responsibilities to protect children on their way to and from school," the department wrote on their Facebook page.

In Florida, drivers must avoid collisions with pedestrians, even if pedestrians violate crosswalk laws. Most violations result in a traffic citation and ticket, but severe cases can lead to reckless driving charges.

While drivers play a crucial role in ensuring safety, the Sheriff's Office encourages parents to discuss crosswalk safety with their children to prepare them for a safe school year.

"Talk to your children about crosswalk safety and make sure they're ready to have a safe school year!