Students are back in school on September 2, and the Central Saanich Police Service is reminding all road users to prepare for busy roads and be vigilant so children get to and from school safely.
Starting September 2, school zone speed limits (30 km/h) are in effect from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on school days. Slow down and watch for students walking, rolling, biking and taking the bus. This fall, drivers should be on the lookout for lower speed limits on select roads across the community to help make our neighbourhoods safer for everyone, especially children.
When following and passing, it’s important to protect vulnerable road users by giving generous space. The Motor Vehicle Act requires at least 1 metre for passing distance on roads that are 50km/h or less. Remember to pass cautiously, first looking ahead for oncoming traffic and any places students may cross the road. When school bus lights are flashing, drivers must stop from both directions.
“New routines and darker, wetter conditions make it critical to leave early, avoid distractions and go slow,” says Corporal Pat Bryant, Community Engagement Officer. “50 children are injured every September in BC while walking or biking to school—the highest average of any month of the year.”
Parents and caregivers are asked to remind children of important road safety habits, like putting phones away and making eye contact with drivers before crossing the road—even at crosswalks with flashing beacons. If your child will walk, roll or bike to school, practice the route together.
When planning your route, consider construction like the Province’s ongoing road work on Keating Cross Road and Central Saanich Road. Starting September 8, there will be construction on Hagan Road near Brentwood Elementary and Bayside Middle Schools due to an emergency culvert replacement. Hagan Road just south of Creekside Court will need to close to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians for parts of September and October.
Central Saanich Police will be a daily presence to monitor and enforce traffic rules in and near school zones. Fines for speeding start at $196, while fines for using an electronic device start at $368.