As summer winds down and students return to class, drivers are reminded to take extra care on the roads. Back-to-school season means more children walking, biking, and riding buses, making road safety more important than ever. Here are two critical reminders for all motorists: school zone speed limits and school bus stopping rules.
School Zone Speed Limits
School zones are designed to protect children traveling to and from school. Speed limits in these areas are significantly reduced during posted hours, often 30 km/h in many communities. Slowing down gives drivers more time to react if a child unexpectedly steps onto the road.
Always watch for posted signs — school zone hours may vary by community.
Stay alert for crossing guards and crosswalks.
Anticipate sudden movements. Children are smaller, harder to see, and may not always follow traffic rules.
By easing off the accelerator, you’re giving kids the space and safety they need.
Stopping for School Buses
School buses use flashing lights and a stop sign arm to signal that children are getting on or off. When those lights are flashing:
Drivers in both directions must stop on an undivided road.
Do not pass the bus until the lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm is retracted.
Leave plenty of space. Children may cross the road unexpectedly in front of or behind the bus.
These rules are in place because kids are most at risk when they’re getting on or off the bus—not while they’re riding it.
Why It Matters
A few extra seconds of patience can prevent a tragedy. Fines for speeding in school zones or passing a stopped school bus are steep, but the real cost is the safety of our children.
As the school year begins, let’s all commit to safer driving habits. Slow down, pay attention, and always stop for flashing school bus lights. Every child deserves a safe trip to and from school.
