Putting children’s safety first as they head back to school

It’s that time of year again! With students back in class, road users must remember to keep safety top of mind.

Drivers are reminded to slow down in school zones, stay focused, and watch for cyclists and pedestrians, including distracted kids who may be excited to be back at school. Children should also be reminded about the importance of crossing the road at a designated crossing or signalized intersection, and waiting until the road is clear and cars and cyclists have come to a complete stop before crossing. With the increase in pedestrians and traffic, all road users should allow for extra travel time during the busy back-to-school season.

Drivers must also remember to come to a full stop when behind or approaching a school bus with its overhead red lights flashing or the stop arm activated. Do not go until the bus moves or the lights have stopped flashing. The school bus law must be followed on any road, no matter how many lanes or what the speed limit. This law helps to keep students safe.

Through the Durham Vision Zero strategic road safety action plan, Durham Region is taking steps to reduce the number of fatal and serious-injury-causing collisions on our roads.

Learn more about Durham Vision Zero at durham.ca/VisionZero.