Schools Are Open And Buses Are On The Road

(BRUCE PENINSULA, ON.) – Area schools are open for another year and the Bruce Peninsula Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is asking motorists, to watch for and stop when school buses have their red lights activated and “Stop” sign out.

When motorists see a school bus stopped on the roadway with its red lights activated and “Stop” sign out, they must come to a complete stop whether they are in front of or behind the bus. Motorists must not pass the stopped bus until the stop arm is retracted and the red lights are turned off. The set fine for passing a school bus is $490 and 6 demerit points. However, an officer can choose to issue a court summons for this offence, where the maximum fine is $2,000. Vehicle owners can be legally responsible and can be charged if their vehicle fails to stop for a school bus, even if they aren’t the driver.

Parents and caregivers – please take the time to discuss safe bike riding and safe walking with your children:

All cyclists under 18 MUST wear an approved helmet
All cyclists need to keep their eyes and ears open for cars
Cyclists must follow the rules of the road – no stunts on the roadway
Walkers use the sidewalks and only cross the streets at intersections
Always look both ways before crossing any road

Taking a few minutes to talk to your children about getting to school safely can be the difference between life and death….It’s worth the time.

For more information about cycling safety, visit www.mto.gov.on.ca.

For more information on the Highway Traffic Act, Statutes and Regulations of Ontario, visit www.e-laws.gov.on.ca.

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