John Galt Public School

• Recognize school zones : School zones can have crossing guards, lights, warning signs, speed bumps and flashing lights to alert drivers. They are notably recognized by the yellow sign featuring silhouettes of two schoolchildren walking. There will be signs to alert drivers of the reduced speed. It is illegal to pass another vehicle, including buses, while in a school zone. Keep an active eye on the road and be aware of the approaching school zones.
• Follow the speed limit : The speed limit in school  are reduced for safety. Always check for posted signs to reduce your speed and prevent last minute braking. School zone speed limits are significantly lower than the roadway around the school.
• Yield to pedestrians : Drivers must yield to pedestrians and crossing guards in school zones. Watch out for children exiting cars and school buses.
• Yield to school buses : As a driver, you should yield to school buses at all times. Always stop when you see the red lights flashing. Do not pass school buses; not only is it dangerous, but you also risk being fined.

We are also asking families to be mindful of side streets where people are parking and picking up their children at the end of the day to please make sure you are not blocking neighbours’ driveways.

Obey The School Zone Speed Limit And Rules In Ontario

School zones are about to get a lot busier. September is back-to-school season. Students of all ages will begin their commute to the classroom. Buses, crossing guards and children playing are just a few factors drivers need to be cautious of.

A 2019 CAA poll found that nearly 70% of Canadians have witnessed a distracted driver in a school zone and 64% have witnessed speeding. September is a dangerous month for pedestrians with more fatalities than any other month.

As a driver, it is your responsibility to watch out for pedestrians and obey the rules in school zones.

School Zone Driving Safety Tips

Every school day, close to 824,000 students travel in 16,000 vehicles. Ensure the safety of those around you with these school zone driving safety tips.

• Obey school crossing guards : Crossing guards are legally permitted to stop traffic and assist children crossing the street. Pay attention to the road and be mindful of areas where children are crossing.
• Slow down and obey the speed limit : School zones limits range between 30-40km/h. Slow down and be extra cautious when driving. You never know when and where a child could pop out from.
• Understand the school parking lot : Travel in the proper direction and designated lanes in a school parking lot. Only park in spots that avoid unnecessary risk and gives cars and pedestrians the room they need to cross.
• Know your community school zones : Some crossings do not have school zone signage But you are still required to follow all school zone driving rules. Any pedestrian crossing. where a crossing guard is present, displaying a school crossing sign, is a school zone.
• Drive as though your kids are present : Treat all school zones as if your children were present. Take the same precautions for other kids as you would your own.