Back to school: the Sûreté du Québec calls for vigilance

Back to school: the Sûreté du Québec calls for vigilance

The Sûreté du Québec reminded drivers to be extra vigilant in school zones at this time of year as there are many students from across the province returning to school in the next few days. To ensure the safety of these students walking, biking or riding bus, patrolmen will be deployed to ensure that the signs are respected. They will be attentive in particular to speeding, and stops imposed by school buses. Police officers are asking motorists to be particularly vigilant and courteous, especially when students are getting on and off the bus, as they are at their most vulnerable.

It should be noted that there are severe penalties for violating school zone limits or passing a stopped school bus. For example, passing a stopped school bus is an offense of nine demerit points and a $200 fine, plus costs and contribution. In addition, a driver traveling at 60 km/ h in an area of 30 km/ h, is an offense of two demerit points and a $105 fine, plus costs and contribution.

The community police and patrol officers will be present in schools to transmit the various safety instructions to students as well, regarding caution and visibility when in school zones.