04 march 2010
Recently, in the Park Extension neighbourhood, we have received complaints regarding dangerous driving practices in proximity to schools: The illegal passing of school buses that are letting off or picking up students.
Here are the rules to follow when a driver sees a school bus:
When the amber lights on the school bus start flashing, you should prepare to stop. This pre-stop signal is a recently introduced safety measure. School bus drivers must now signal in advance their intention to stop.
The purpose of such a warning signal is to prepare oncoming traffic to slow down and to prevent vehicles behind a school bus from braking or accelerating suddenly.
Two steps to remember:
1. Prepare to stop
When a school bus's four amber warning lights or hazard warning lights are flashing.
2. Bring your vehicle to a complete stop at least 5 metres away from a school bus
When its red lights are flashing AND its stop sign is unfolded.
Police will pay special attention to this issue in this neighbourhood.
Reminder to deliquent drivers:
Passing a school bus when its RED lights are flashing is an offence that is liable to a penalty of 9 demerit points entered on your driving record and a $200 fine plus court costs of $74. TOTAL: $274
Motorists are not required to stop if a school bus is approaching on a roadway that is separated by a median.
To find out more