The North Bay Police Service says they have only received seven formal complaints from bus lines relating to drivers running school bus stop signs this fall.
“There is certain criteria drivers need before they can lodge a complaint,” stated Marie Lugli, North Bay Police Service’s Communications Director.
That news comes after Stock Bus Lines reported late last week that 70 of the 101 bus drivers surveyed by the service claimed they had drivers run their stop signs at least once already since school started in early September.
“I have 101 buses and I’m going to say 70 percent of our buses have had at least one vehicle go through their lights and stop arms since school started,” admitted Lena Cormier, Stock Bus Lines General Manager.
See that story here: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/bad-drivers-forcing-school-bus-officials-to-re-evaluate-school-bus-service-in-north-bay-427844
Despite the low number of formal reports, Lugli says the Police Service is taking the problem very seriously.
“We want to continue to put the safety message out and continue to monitor traffic because children’s safety is paramount,” said Lugli.
The Police urge citizens or parents who witness drivers running school bus stop signs to be pro-active and report those drivers to police.
“An average citizen can call or help with an investigation with time date location and vehicle description and license,” stated Lugli.
“They can call the North Bay Police Service’s traffic office but have to realize they could be a witness in court.”
