The B.C. RCMP is encouraging the motoring public to be extra vigilent now that school is back in session.
School speed zones (30 km/h) are in effect Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., during designated school days. (Playground speeds zones are in effect dusk to dawn, all year round.)
Motorists must stop for all school buses when kids are boarding or getting off the bush and the flashing red lights are on. This applies to vehicles behind the school bus and approaching from the opposite direction.
Those who are caught disregarding the rules get to face hefty fines:
• Speed in school and playground zones – $196-$253
• Fail to stop for school bus – $368
• Fail to yield to pedestrian – $167
• Disobey school guard/patrol – $167
The RCMP reminds people that children often don’t know or don’t remember the rules of the road.
For kids nine and younger, most pedestrian traffic injuries occur mid-block while most mishaps for kids ages 10 to 14 happen at intersections. Parents are encouraged to teach their kids about pedestrian safety often.
Learn more at the website www.bc.rcmp.ca.