CAA Manitoba urges drivers to prioritize safety as students return to school

CAA Manitoba (CAA MB) has sent a reminder to motorists to remain vigilant, particularly when driving in school zones. With the increase in traffic associated with the start of the school year, CAA MB is raising awareness about the dangers posed by unsafe driving behaviours.

Ewald Friesen, manager of government and community relations for CAA MB, highlighted the risks. “Parents and guardians across Manitoba have reported seeing unsafe driving behaviours in school zones, including double parking, speeding, and stopping in moving traffic. Not only are these behaviours dangerous, but they also could come with stiff penalties,” he said.

A common issue during this time of year is the temptation for some drivers to pass a stopped school bus, even when the bus’s stop arm is activated, and lights are flashing. Friesen stressed the severity of this violation.

“Passing a school bus is not only illegal, but it also puts young lives at risk and is grounds for potential conviction of the driver. If convicted, a driver can face a hefty fine of $674 and two demerit points,” noted Friesen.

Observing responsible driving

In its ongoing effort to protect students, CAA MB has outlined several tips for responsible driving in school zones:

1. Encourage active school travel: Parents have been encouraged to have their children walk or wheel to school to reduce traffic congestion. CAA MB advised parents and guardians to park a block from the school and walk the rest of the way to help ease traffic in school zones if the school is a further away.
2. Eliminate distractions: CAA MB offered a reminder that pedestrian safety starts with the driver. “It’s important to put away distractions such as phones and be extra attentive in school zones, whether a parent is driving, or a child is walking to school,” said the statement.
3. Respect speed limits: Motorists were reminded to familiarize themselves with and adhere to speed limits in school zones. “Give yourself plenty of time to drop off your kids at school to avoid rushing,” CAA MB highlighted.
4. Choose safe drop-off spots: CAA MB has advised against double parking, stopping in crosswalks, or dropping children off on the opposite side of the street. Instead, drivers have been encouraged to use designated drop-off areas or find a safe, accessible location away from heavy traffic.
5. Make eye contact with pedestrians: CAA MB noted drivers should be aware that excited children may not always notice oncoming vehicles. Making eye contact with pedestrians before they cross the road can prevent accidents.
6. Stop for school buses: Under no circumstances should a motorist pass a stopped school bus with an activated stop arm and flashing lights, CAA MB highlighted. “Passing a school bus as it loads and unloads children – not only is this dangerous, but it’s also illegal,” it stated.
7. Watch for CAA School Safety Patrollers: Drivers were reminded to remain alert for CAA School Safety Patrollers, who wear lime green vests and play a crucial role in ensuring that children cross roads safely.

For more information on school zone safety and the CAA School Safety Patrol® program, visit CAA Manitoba’s website.

Do you have any additional tips for drivers? Let us know in the comments below.