Adam Prudhomme
Editor
School is back in session across the region in earnest this week, which means Lennox and Addington OPP are reminding motorists to take extra care when near a school zone or bus.
Given the fact it’s been several months since students were last in school, local police are urging drivers and students to brush up on the rules of the road.
“Students went on March Break and didn’t come back,” said Lennox and Addington OPP Cst. Shannon Cork. “So we want to remind everyone that school buses are out there now, it’s increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists and there are rules of the road that everybody needs to be responsible for.”
Cork says there are steep penalties for those who disobey the rules and put students at risk.
“Failing to stop for a school bus is $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points for a first offense,” said Cork. “After that, subsequent offenses carry a fine of $1,000 and $4,000 and six demerit points. We just want drivers to be prepared to yield to students and pedestrians and also we want parents of students who will be walking or cycling to school, they’re encouraged to speak to their children about the rules of the road and that they apply to them.”
Students are reminded to be careful as well and could use a safety reminder given the long layoff between days on a bus. With more parents expected to opt to drive their kids to school this year, there will likely be more traffic in and around school at the start and end of the day.
School zones aren’t the only area that requires extra care. Drivers need to be alert anytime they see a bus on the road, knowing it could stop at any time to pick up or drop off a student.
“Motorists encountering a stopped school bus that has its safety lights and equipment activated shall stop before reaching the bus and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the safety lights and equipment have been deactivated,” said Cork.
Police will increase their presence in school zones over the coming days to keep an eye on motorists and pedestrians.
“Go slow, plan enough time ahead so you’re not rushing and make sure you look around your surroundings before you go backwards of forwards and definitely pay attention to the rules of the road,” added Cork.