As students across Ontario return to school, the OPP is reminding motorists to take extra precautions as school zones become busier.
The OPP is urging drivers to slow down, remain alert and exercise additional caution during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times, when traffic and pedestrian activity typically increase.
Drivers are encouraged to watch carefully for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway, eliminate distractions, and keep their attention focused on the road.
The OPP is also reminding motorists of their responsibilities when approaching school buses. When a school bus is displaying flashing amber lights, drivers should be prepared to stop. The amber lights indicate that the bus is preparing to load or unload passengers and that its red overhead warning lights will soon be activated.
Once a school bus has stopped and its red overhead lights are flashing, motorists are required by law to stop and remain stopped until the red lights are no longer flashing and the bus’s stop arm has been withdrawn.
Pedestrians are also encouraged to use designated crosswalks and intersections whenever possible. Before crossing, pedestrians should look left, right and left again, make eye contact with drivers and ensure vehicles have stopped before entering the roadway. Where crossing guards are present, pedestrians should always follow their instructions.
