Road Safety

Motorists... Exercise Caution!

School Zones are Risk Areas...

Exercise caution if school buses are in the area. Obey road signs, traffic signals and speed limits.

Beginning of a school zone
These signs also post the speed limit and indicate the circumstances or time of the day the speed limit is in effect, usually during periods when schools are in session.

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Warning of a school zone or a crosswalk for schoolchildren ahead

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Speed limit
May be 30 km/h or 50 km/h, depending on the circumstances.

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School crossing
This sign indicates the presence of a school crossing.

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Warning of a school bus stop ahead
This alerts motorists to the possible presence of a school bus stopped to take on or let off a passenger.

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Advance Warning Signals, a New Safety Measure

School bus drivers now have to signal in advance before bringing a school bus to a stop.

The purpose of warning signals is to prepare oncoming traffic to slow down and to prevent vehicles behind a school bus from braking or accelerating suddenly.

Two steps to remember:

1. Prepare to stop when a school bus's four amber warning lights or hazard warning lights are flashing.
2. Bring your vehicle to a complete stop at least five metres away from a school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.

Remember...

Passing a school bus when its red lights are flashing is an offence that is liable to a penalty of 9 demerit points entered on your driving record and a $200 to $300 fine. Other fees may be added to the fine provided under the Highway Safety Code (contribution to the IVAC crime victims compensation program, registry fees, etc.).

Motorists are not required to stop if a school bus is approaching on a roadway that is separated by a median.