LAC LA BICHE - RCMP, Lac La Biche County peace officers and school officials are keeping a close watch on the streets around schools as classes start for another year.
School zone speeds in excess of the posted 30 km/h limits, school bus infractions, distracted driving, as well as pedestrian infractions are all on the radar... of the folks who might also be using radar, as the new school year begins.
RCMP and police in Lac La Biche, across the Lakeland and the province are issuing their annual message for all motorists and pedestrians to pay extra caution in and around schools and playgrounds.
School zones are in effect in the Lac La Biche area from 8-9:30am, 11:30am-1:30pm and 3-4:30pm
Classes are in session, notes area RCMP, and that means back-to-school lessons for drivers and students. In a press release issued during the first week of classes, provincial Mounties offer tips to get an "A+ in traffic safety."
• Give yourself more time to get where you are going. This prevents speeding and ensures you are focused on road safety.
• When entering a school or playground zone, slow down. Pedestrian collisions at lower speeds have a higher survivability rate and reduce serious trauma.
• When a school bus is flashing its alternating red lights, stop and do not pass. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to $567 and six demerits. It is not necessary to stop if the bus is on the other side of a divided highway.
• When pedestrians are crossing the street, come to a complete stop and do not block the crosswalk with your vehicle. Make eye contact with the pedestrian and ensure they have cleared the road before proceeding.
• Always follow the direction of crossing guards. Crossing guards are there to keep children safe.
• Keep an eye out for children, especially during school operating hours. Kids can easily become distracted and do not always understand the rules of the road.
• Unload child passengers away from traffic and congestion or in a designated drop-off area.
“With the start of the school year, motorists can expect an increase of children on our streets and sidewalks. It is therefore critical that we all share the road responsibly,” says Supt. Gary Graham, with Alberta RCMP Traffic Services. “Remember, when entering a school or playground zone, always drive with caution. Slow down and stay alert.”
Fines
While the initial police presence in the school zones serves more of a reminder to motorists, and some cautions may be issued, tickets will also issued, say local police.
The driver of a vehicle clocked at eight kilometres above the posted speed limit can be issued a fine of $98. For 10 kilometres over the posted limit, the fine is $105. In most cases, drivers caught speeding during school zone hours will see those fines double.The lower range speed fines also come with two demerits off the 15-point license system.
School bus infractions like failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing come with a $543 fine and six license demerits.