With kids getting ready to head back to class, ICBC is reminding drivers to be wary of school zone traffic.
“Kids are excited! They’re thinking about new classes and new friends, so this time of year safety is not top of mind for a lot of children.” says ICBC’s Joanna Linsangan, “The onus is on drivers to be extra vigilant, especially in school zones.”
78 children between the ages of 5 and 18 are injured in crashes in school and playground zones yearly, with 7 of those injuries occurring in Northern-Central BC.
Parents are encouraged to talk to their kids about road safety, and to set an example by not jaywalking or speeding in school zones.
Linsangan says there are plenty of situations where drivers need to be on guard, like when vehicles are stopped or blocking their view.
“They may actually be stopping for a pedestrian, so it’s best to be aware and be prepared to stop as well. They should always look out for school buses. Vehicles travelling in both directions are required to stop for school buses when lights are flashing.”
“When parents send their kids back to school this fall, they expect them to come home safely at the end of the day,” says Minister of Education Mike Bernier, “It’s up to all of us as drivers, as parents, and as students to slow down, be alert and obey the rules of the road.”
The school zone speed limit is 30 km/hr from 8am to 5pm on school days.
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