With students heading back to school on August 31st, our roads and communities become much busier. The Town of Vegreville and our local RCMP detachment is reminding all local drivers that safety for everyone is the number one priority with these back to school driving safety tips:
-One very important on-going safety issue is stopping for school buses with red flashing lights, and an extended stop arm out. All drivers in BOTH directions must stop, unless the roadway to physically divided by a median. Drivers need to understand that passing a stopped school bus is extremely dangerous because children may be crossing the road. Do not proceed until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm has been retracted.
-Flashing yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop-drivers must slow down and prepare to stop.
-Failing to stop for a school bus can result in a fine of up to $567 and six demerit points.
-Respect school zone limits. Drivers should slow down and pay extra attention when entering a school zone, as there are more children walking, cycling, and crossing the road. Following the posted speed limit gives drivers more time to react and helps prevent serious collisions. Avoid passing other vehicles stopped at a crosswalk, as they may be yielding to someone you can’t see. Also, obey crossing guards and yield to pedestrians at all marked and unmarked crosswalks. Remember children move unexpectedly.
-Avoid distractions. This includes keeping your phone away and staying focused on the road. A moment of distraction can have serious consequences, including a $390 fine and may impact your insurance.
-Respect school drop-off and pick-up zones. Drivers should follow school traffic rules, avoid unsafe stopping or parking, and watch for children moving between vehicles.
-If you are the pedestrian, always look both ways before crossing. Use designated crosswalks and obey crossing guards. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping on to the road, put away phones and remove headphones while crossing so you are more aware of your surroundings.
As we begin the new school year, safety is a shared responsibility between our community, students, parents, and school staff. By staying alert, following safety rules and looking out for one another, we can help make this school year safe and successful for everyone.
