All year long, 9NEWS will focus on "Cool Schools." Each month, we'll highlight one school for having a great teacher/administrator, an interesting project or fundraiser, a stand-out group or student, a fascinating class and more.
DENVER - In just a few weeks, school will be back in session.
That means it's back to the routines: packing lunches, doing homework ... and picking up or dropping the kids off at school.
Turns out, that carpool lane is a source of frustration for many parents and teachers. We asked for your biggest peeves about the carpool lane and, wow, did you deliver. Our post received more than 50 comments.
Here are 9 of the most common complaints:
1. Parking in the carpool lane
The top complaint was about people who park in the carpool lane and get out of their cars and walk up to the school. It's supposed to work as a drive-through and when people park it slows everyone down.
2. Not getting in and out quickly enough
Another thing everyone seemed to agree on is the need for speed, at least when it comes to getting out of the car (not fast driving, that's a whole different issue). Those long goodbyes should be done at home, and everyone should have their belongings and be ready to get in or out quickly.
3. Using a turn lane or driving lane as a dropoff
Using the "through" lane as the dropoff lane is also a big no-no! Not only are you essentially cutting in line, but you're also blocking the way for the people that are following the rules.
4. Ignoring posted rules or signs
Not following the rules and ignoring signage also gets people hot under the collar. Whether it's driving too fast, going the wrong way or parking where it's not allowed, it's an issue that really gets people fired up.
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5. Speed
It could be too fast or too slow, but the speed at which you get through the carpool lane is an issue. Some people complained about those driving too fast, a safety issue, but others said they were annoyed by slow drivers, who they said held everyone else up.
6. Blocking other cars or parking spots
Blocking in other cars, blocking access to handicap spots or double parking are also annoying. It's simple folks, be courteous.
7. Parking where parking isn't allowed
Fire lanes and crosswalks are not for parking, but apparently, some people don't think it's a problem to use them as parking spaces when there aren't any other spots available.
8. Cutting in line
Look we all know waiting in line stinks, but sometimes it's necessary.
9. Texting and driving
It's illegal and it's certainly not a good idea when there are a lot of other cars and children around.
Have another pet peeve or back to school-related story idea? Email me janet.oravetz@9news.com
