North Bay Police have issued their first ticket for the new school year for passing a stopped school bus.
Manager of Operations Inspector Larry Asselin says; “We are dealing with the first charge of this school year when a driver drove through the lights of a school bus. At this time of year, drivers must focus more than ever on basic safety rules and be certain to add some patience to your daily routine not only for buses but for our children that are walking to and from schools.”
Community Safety Zones are there to remind you that you are in an area that needs your extra attention, says a police news release. "They are in effect now which means lower speed limits and double the fines."
Remember these points;
- Children are more difficult to see than adults and are the least predictable. Take that extra time to look out for children.
- Stop for the school bus that has flashing lights. The bus is letting children off or on.
- Vehicle owners can be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus, even if they weren't driving.
- The fine for a first offence starts at $400, up to $2,000, plus victim surcharge and court costs, with six demerit points added to the driver’s license on conviction.
- When you approach the bus from the front or the rear, stop at a safe distance to let children get on or off the bus and cross the road.
