As of Tuesday roads, streets, and highways will be filled with
familiar orange schoolbuses, taking kids of all ages back to school.
The OPP would like to remind drivers of the safety rules surrounding school
buses, as well as the law.
Sergeant Dave Rektor says anyone caught not stopping in both directions for
a school bus with flashing lights will receive a hefty fine of almost 500
dollars.
In addition, the driver will receive six de-merit points.
Financial implications aside, Rektor wants people to remember that if they
do not stop for a school bus, they could seriously harm or kill a child.
He says sadly, every year a child is injured or killed as a result of a
preventable collision.
He adds that when kids are returning to school, they are excited, and not
necessarily paying attention to their own safety.
Rektor is hoping that advance warning to motorists will help drivers
re-adjust to the minor delays caused by buses stopping to pick up children.
He says police will be out in school areas and in some cases, monitoring bus
routes to ensure drivers comply with the law.
In addition, Rektor is asking that guardians talk to children about safe
conduct while riding the bus.
He says that includes talking about road safety, appropriate behaviour on the
bus, and how to board and exit a bus safely.
