The Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment is reminding motorists to exercise caution as school buses return to the roads, with some area schools beginning classes on August 27, 2024. With the new school year approaching, drivers can expect an increase in pedestrians, cyclists, and school buses, and should allow for extra commuting time.
The OPP emphasizes the importance of safety, particularly as students, excited to return to school, may forget some of the essential rules for safe travel. Motorists are required to stop when encountering a school bus with its safety lights activated. Drivers must remain stopped until the bus moves or the lights are turned off. This rule applies whether approaching or following a school bus, even on multi-lane roads. The only exception is on roads with a median, where traffic moving in the opposite direction is not required to stop. It’s important to note that vehicle owners can be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus, even if they were not driving at the time.
The penalties for failing to stop for a school bus are severe. First-time offenders face fines ranging from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points. Repeat offenders can be fined between $1,000 and $4,000, receive six demerit points, and may face up to six months in jail.
Drivers are also advised to be vigilant and prepared to yield to student pedestrians and cyclists. Parents are encouraged to discuss road safety rules with their children who will be walking or cycling to school. The OPP’s message is clear: with the return of school buses, safety should be every motorist’s top priority.
(Written by: Emma Butler)
