The academic year begins for many local schools in August, and motorists will notice school zones in effect and school buses on the road.

When driving through a school zone, Texas Department of Transportation officials urge motorists to obey reduced speed limits, which typically range from 20-35 miles per hour.

School zones begin at least 200 feet in advance of the school grounds, school crossings or other school activities, according to the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Traffic fines usually double in school zones. Drivers using cellphones can face fines up to $200.

Motorists should also mind the Texas School Bus Law, which mandates a driver must stop when near a school bus that is stopped and operating a visual signal. If the road is divided by a left-turning or painted lane, drivers on both sides must stop, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. If the lanes are separated by a physical barrier or median, only motorists traveling in the same direction as the bus are required to stop.