Police reminding drivers of the 'ABCs' around schools

The arrival of fall brings with it an increase in activity in and around all schools. Students will be walking and cycling, school buses will be dropping and picking up children and there will be an increase in traffic in and around school zones that will all require extra attention by motorists on York Region roads.

York Regional police have announced that Operation ABC - Always Be Careful, a traffic initiative launched last September in partnership with the York Catholic and York Region District School Boards, is aimed at educating motorists, students, parents and teachers of the importance of pedestrian safety in school zones, especially during school hours. Police consider pedestrian safety a priority and nowhere is that more important than in the vicinity of schools.

The Highway Traffic Act states that all motorists must yield to pedestrians waiting to cross the roadway. Motorists must always be prepared to stop when approaching a crosswalk and are reminded that children expect drivers to stop.

Beginning this week, officers will be enforcing all the rules of the road, particularly in school zones.

In addition to enforcement at or near schools, traffic officers will be actively looking out for drivers who disobey the flashing lights of school buses. Officers will monitor buses on their routes and will be ready to act when a violation occurs.

In addition to six demerit points, the charge of failing to stop for a school bus carries a penalty for a first-time offender of up to $2,000. For a second offence, a fine of up to $4,000 or six months in jail may be imposed.

Police ask all drivers to take extra care this fall. Many children are excited about seeing their friends and may not be giving traffic on the roads their full attention. Exercising extra care will help make this back-to-school season a positive experience for all road users.

They remind all motorists to drive defensively and courteously. Obey school zone speed limits and crossing guards. Watch carefully for enthusiastic children who may not be watching themselves. Avoid speeding in residential neighbourhoods and obey the laws governing school buses.