BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY

The Morristown Police Department would like to remind everyone children are returning to school in Hamblen County next week.  Please remember to allow additional time for travel through school zones and other congested areas or take an alternate route.

Chief Overholt stated, “Officers of the Morristown Police Department will be concentrating enforcement in school zones in both the morning and afternoon.  Be aware of posted school zones and reduced speed limits in those areas particularly between 6:45 – 8:00am and 2:45 – 4:00pm.”

As a reminder, Tennessee passed the “hands-free” law on July 1st, banning drivers from using hand-held devices on any roadway; driver’s 18 years of age and older may use hands-free devices.  Those cited for using a hand-held device in a marked school zone when a warning flasher or flashers are in operation, the fine is $200.00 and is subject to the imposition of court costs.  The law does not prohibit those 18 years of age or older from operating a hands-free device in the school zone. 

Those with young drivers should remind them that drivers under the age of 18 cannot knowingly operate a motor vehicle on any road or highway and talk on a mobile telephone even if it is equipped with a hands-free device while the vehicle is in motion.

Drivers are urged to remove any distractions and devote full time and attention to operating the vehicle.

The Morristown Police Department would like to thank everyone for driving responsibly and assisting us in keeping students in Hamblen County safe.