Back to School: Police Presence to Increase in the Coming Days

Back to School: Police Presence to Increase in the Coming Days

Students in the Pontiac region will soon be returning to school, bringing increased activity on the roads from school buses, pedestrians, cyclists, and crossing guards. Until September 5, the Sûreté du Québec will step up its presence near schools.

Road users are urged to exercise extra caution to ensure a safe back-to-school period for everyone. Drivers are required to respect posted speed limits in school zones. Fines are doubled if a violation occurs during the school period. If no specific signage is posted, the school zone rules apply from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, from September to June.

All road users, including cyclists, must stop at least five meters away from a bus or minibus when its red flashing lights are activated or its stop sign is extended. When traffic is being directed by a peace officer, a school crossing guard, or a flagger at a construction site, everyone must obey their instructions and signals, even if they conflict with other signage.

Drivers are also required to stop at crosswalks when a pedestrian is on the yellow or white lines or has indicated their intention to cross.