Authorities are reminding drivers to be vigilant and to use more caution on the roads with kids back to school this week. Drivers should be giving themselves more time, slowing down and looking out for buses.

State police said they can never remind drivers too much to use caution, particularly when approaching a school bus. Trooper Jack Keller said authorities will have more police watching motorists for speeding and distracted driving violations over the next few weeks.

Yellow flashing lights indicate a school bus is preparing to stop, so drivers should do the same. Red, of course, means to stop, and you should also look ahead for the extended stop sign.

Parents of kids walking to school or heading to the bus stop should also remind students to be careful when crossing or near a roadway.

Keller says getting into a safer "routine" is good for all.

"It's being prepared,” he said. “In the mornings, in the afternoons, when you see a school bus, be prepared that you need to be stopping. They're just getting used to getting their routes together and of course, the children aren't looking for you, so you need to be looking for them.”

Keller said distracted driving continues to be one of the biggest issues state police deal with. He said this time of year, it's particularly important not to be texting or looking at your phone when you're behind the wheel.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, on average, more than 100 deaths occur in school transportation-related crashes each year.

A first offense for passing a stopped school bus can range between $250 and $400, with 5 points on your license.