In a recent press release dated January 27, 2026, Verra Mobility Corporation unveiled the findings of its latest survey, which sheds light on parental perceptions regarding traffic safety around schools. As the current school year reaches its midpoint, the survey indicates an overwhelming demand for automated enforcement measures to ensure the safety of students during their commutes.

2. Survey Highlights

Conducted through Pollfish, the survey collected responses from 2,000 parents and caregivers of school-aged children. The results reveal a concerning trend regarding traffic safety in school zones, as many respondents reported witnessing near-miss incidents involving students. Key findings include:

82% of parents support the implementation of safety cameras to monitor and penalize drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.

70% favor automated enforcement measures in school zones to enhance safety.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for action in light of the alarming number of near-miss incidents observed by parents:

43% have witnessed a near miss in a school zone.

33% have observed a near miss surrounding a stopped school bus.

3. Effectiveness of Automated Enforcement Programs

Verra Mobility has long championed the efficacy of automated enforcement programs in promoting traffic safety. The company’s historical data indicates that school bus stop-arm programs can lead to a 50% reduction in violations within just two months of implementation. Furthermore, 98% of drivers who receive a stop-arm violation do not repeat the offense.

Similarly, school zone speed safety initiatives have shown remarkable success, with programs reporting a 94% reduction in speeding at locations equipped with speed cameras. These figures highlight the potential of technology to change dangerous driving behaviors and protect students from harm.

4. Statements from Leadership

David Dorfman, Senior Vice President of Verra Mobility, emphasized the collective priority among parents, educators, and communities: "Keeping students safe." He noted that with a significant majority of parents advocating for automated enforcement, the technology presents a viable solution to curtail reckless driving behaviors and avert tragedies.

5. A Growing Trend in Traffic Safety

The survey results reflect a broader concern shared by educators and school administrators. Approximately 38% of public-school officials expressed moderate to strong agreement that traffic patterns surrounding their schools pose a threat to students' safety. In response, parents are calling for comprehensive safety strategies, which could include physical improvements such as speed bumps, increased crossing guards, and enhanced signage and traffic signals.

Verra Mobility has actively responded to these needs, having launched 13 new school zone speed programs across more than 250 communities in the U.S. during the 2024-2025 school year, with locations stretching from Memphis, Tennessee, to Poulsbo, Washington.

6. Conclusion

The pressing need for enhanced safety measures in school zones has become increasingly clear, as evidenced by the recent Verra Mobility survey. With a strong public mandate for automated enforcement, the company is poised to play a crucial role in fostering safer environments for students and communities alike. As technology continues to evolve, the partnership between municipalities and Verra Mobility can lead to significant improvements in traffic safety and student protection across the nation.

For additional information on enhancing community safety through technology, visit Verra Mobility’s official website.

Original press release