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Law Enforcement Focuses on School Zones in September

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School is back in session and SGI is reminding motorists to be cautious when driving through School Zones. During September, there will be a focus from law enforcement on school zones.

Of course safety is priority number one. As children head back to school, the streets within the community are sure to be bustling, especially the streets surrounding the schools. Mornings as school is starting, and afternoon when school lets out are typically the busiest times; however, it is important to be cautious at all times.

If caught driving over the speed limit within a school zone, drivers can expect a hefty fine. Fines for speeding in school zones are actually higher than regular tickets, and this number was recently increased. A vehicle found to be exceeding the speed limit by 20km/h can expect a $310 ticket, and those going 40km/h over would see a $570 fine. Let’s all do ourselves a favour and obey the law in order to avoid unnecessary expenses.

In a recent news release from SGI, they remind motorists that the faster a vehicle is travelling, the more likely it is to kill or injure a pedestrian in a collision. “One study found that a vehicle striking a pedestrian at 50km/h results in a fatality 55 per cent of the time.” In addition to this, higher speeds can make it difficult to react in time, lowering your ability to stop in time to avoid a collision.

“Many of the pedestrians in school zones are children who are smaller, more vulnerable and don’t always follow the traffic rules,” said Penny McCune, Chief Operating Officer of the Auto Fund. “It’s important that motorists lower their speed, yield to pedestrians and watch out for kids who may dart out unexpectedly. Remember to obey commands from crossing guards, and take care around school buses that have stopped to load or unload kids.”

On Tuesday, September 4th, Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) were out in fully swing patrolling school zones throughout the city. A total of 230 drivers were ticketed for speeding through school zones, with one driver being clocking in at 91km/h, earning them a $921 ticket. They also received an additional $175 ticket for not wearing a seatbelt. In addition to the speeders, SPS handed out tickets to 59 drivers that were using their cell phones while driving.

It is important for parents to explain to their children to be cautious when crossing roads and ensure that drivers see them before stepping into the streets.

Remember, school zones are in effect from September to June and are active from 8:00am -5:00pm Monday to Friday.

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