Peace Regional RCMP are reminding motorists to remain attentive when passing school buses and when driving through school or playground zones. Every year, the detachment receives multiple complaints of motorists driving past stopped school busses when they are required to stop. The fine for failing to stop before approaching a school bus with alternately flashing red lamps is $567 and a penalty of 6 demerit points against the offenders license.
RCMP remind drivers to follow these tips in order to maintain safety around an operating school bus:
- When you see a school bus, assume children will be around and take extra care – leave lots of space around the bus;
- When the bus turns on the flashing yellow lights – this means it is about to stop to pick up children. Slow down and prepare to stop;
- When the bus turns on the flashing red lights – this means STOP in BOTH directions. Never pass a school bus with flashing red lights in either direction. Stop well back from the bus. If you have any doubt what to do – STOP!
The detachment also gives tips for cautious driving while around schools:
- Be on the lookout for school zone signals/signs and ALWAYS obey the posted speed limits;
- Be alert and aware, do not drive distracted.
Peace Regional RCMP says they take road safety seriously and will continue to conduct enforcement in school zones and along bus routes throughout the year.
-Calvin Hector, Trending 55 Newsroom
