§ 2109.02. Traffic direction in emergencies—Obedience to school crossing guards.

(a)

It shall be the duty of the police department to enforce the provisions of this Traffic Code. Police officers are authorized to direct all traffic, either in person or by means of visible or audible signal in conformance with the provisions of this Traffic Code, provided that in the event of a fire or other emergency or to expedite traffic or safeguard pedestrians, officers of the police or fire departments may direct traffic as conditions may require, notwithstanding the provisions of this Traffic Code. Police officers when directing traffic, either on foot or from any vehicle, shall station themselves wherever necessary to effectively regulate traffic upon the streets.

(b)

The Director of Public Safety or his designated representative is authorized to make temporary regulations because of emergencies, special conditions or special events which temporarily restrict access to certain designated sidewalks and streets or portions thereof, and which provide that the designated restricted area is to be conspicuously posted notifying the public that only authorized persons are permitted in the restricted area.

(c)

No person shall fail to stop at a marked crosswalk in use by school children under the supervision of a trained crossing guard.

As used in this section, "trained crossing guard" is any person trained and certified by a school board of education in accordance with State regulations.

(d)

Whoever violates division (c) of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one (1) predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates division (c) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one (1) year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two (2) or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates division (c) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

(Ord. 1901-89: Ord. 2120-03 § 1 (part).)