09/10/2026
The Salina City Police Department would like to make parents and students aware of several concerning driving behaviors we have recently observed involving students traveling to and from school.
We are seeing students operating passenger vehicles, side-by-sides/UTVs, motorcycles, and motorized scooters without the appropriate driver license, permit, endorsement, supervision, or required protective equipment. We have also encountered unlicensed and learner-permitted drivers transporting other juveniles.
The biggest concern is how some of these vehicles are being operated. Officers have observed or received reports of students speeding through school zones, disregarding stop signs, cutting off other vehicles, driving recklessly, and failing to follow basic traffic laws.
Students have already been involved in crashes. We want to address these behaviors before a preventable mistake results in a serious injury or fatality.
Parents: Please take a few minutes to speak with your student about driving. Make sure they are legally permitted to operate the vehicle they are using, understand any applicable restrictions, have the required safety equipment, and understand the responsibility that comes with being behind the wheel or handlebars.
Driving is a privilege, and with that privilege comes a responsibility to protect yourself, your passengers, other students, and everyone else using our roadways.
Our preference is always to prevent a tragedy rather than respond to one. However, unsafe driving behavior cannot be ignored. Traffic violations and unlawful operation may result in citations and referral to Youth Court or Juvenile Court when appropriate.
Students: slow down, buckle up, wear the appropriate protective gear, obey traffic signs and school zones, and make good decisions.
Parents: please help us reinforce that message at home.
Salina City Police Department
