The Vancouver Police and its partners are reminding motorists to slow down and pay attention, as thousands of children head back to school this fall. Motorists can expect to see targeted enforcement by police of unsafe driving behaviour in and around school zones.
“Every driver should consider how with just one bad decision – like speeding or texting – the worst can happen, especially in a school or playground zone,” said Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth. “Think about the damage you could cause to yourself, your victims, and your victim’s family. Particularly at this time of year, parents and children in your community need to be able to rely on you to take everyone’s safety very seriously.”
Traffic enforcement officers will be at Renfrew Elementary and many other schools today and over the next few weeks to enforce speed limits and look for driving behaviour that puts pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists at risk.
“Back to school is a very exciting and busy time for families. I’m so glad that we’re all working together to ensure our kids stay safe going to and from school,” says Minister of Education Rob Fleming. “I encourage everyone to slow down and be extra aware when driving in school zones and on all roads throughout British Columbia.”
“We have little tolerance for behaviour that puts children at risk. We want students travelling to and from school to be safe,” says VPD Deputy Chief Constable, Warren Lemcke. “Road safety is a shared responsibility and we’re asking drivers to give themselves extra time so everyone gets to their destination safely.”
School zone speed limits are 30 km/h between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, unless otherwise posted. Fines for drivers caught speeding in school zones range from $196 to $483.
