Slow down, obey the rules and be patient in school zones or face consequences, warns SQ

A group of elementary-age children running from the bus to class.

The academic year is getting back into full swing, and that means school zones will soon be full of young pedestrians and cyclists sharing the roads with drivers.

To ensure everyone gets to their destination safely, the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) says it’s planning to increase enforcement from Aug. 24 to Sept. 11.

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“Road users are urged to be extra vigilant and practice safe driving habits to encourage a safe start to the school year,” the force notes.

The rules, the SQ points out, are simple:

• Obey the speed limits: In school zones, fines are doubled for violations during school hours (7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, September to June).
• All road users, including cyclists, must stop at least five metres away when approaching a school bus or minibus with flashing red lights or a displayed stop sign.
• When traffic is directed by a law enforcement officer, school crossing guard or roadwork traffic controller, people must, even if signs indicate otherwise, obey their orders and signals.
• Drivers must come to a complete stop when approaching a crosswalk if a pedestrian has stepped onto the yellow or white lines or has indicated an intention to do so.

“Compliance with traffic signs near schools is essential, particularly in areas reserved for school buses, no-parking zones and drop-off areas,” the SQ said. “Parents who drive their children to school are encouraged to drop them off in a safe and authorized location to avoid risky manoeuvres, such as double parking or making U-turns, which can endanger students and other road users.”

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The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) is also sharing five essential rules for drivers to follow near a school:

1. I slow down and watch for children.
2. I obey the speed limit and yield at crosswalks.
3. I do not make U-turns.
4. I am patient.
5. I plan my trips and leave early so I’m less likely to speed.

“Did you know that the faster you drive, the longer your braking distance will be?” the Crown corporation asks. “It’s a proven fact: driving just 10 km/h over the limit can mean the difference between life and death.”

Parents can also remind their children of the rules they should follow when commuting:

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1. I choose the right spot to walk so I’m clearly visible on the street.
2. I obey traffic lights.
3. I make it a habit to step away from the bus’ wheels after getting off.
4. I make eye contact with drivers after getting off the bus and check for cars before crossing the street.
5. I stay away from large vehicles and their blind spots.