Clanton Police advise everyone to be patient Monday as back-to-school traffic will hit the roadways.

Officers say traffic is always worst for the first few days, as everyone gets back in school and parents learn the loading and unloading routines.

The police department will be working traffic controls at various intersections throughout the city to measure the flow of traffic this first week of the new school year.

Sgt. Neil Fetner gave the following advice to parents and other drivers on the road: “If you observe a police officer controlling an intersection, remember that the police officer’s direction supersedes all traffic control devices.  Please obey the direction of the police officer and be patient as there will be new parents that may not be familiar with the traffic patterns of school traffic in our town.”

Drivers should also be mindful of speeding in school zones:.

“The police department will be enforcing  speed limits strictly,” Fetner said.  “If you observe pedestrians, remember that they have the right-of-way in crosswalks.  Please be considerate.”

Officers say they want to ensure everyone has a safe year.

“We ask that everyone leave a few minutes early on Monday and Tuesday and take extra precautions as the first day of school each year is hectic”, said Capt. Freeman Ellison.

All Chilton County Schools first day of class will be Monday, Aug. 15.