Slow down in school zones as new teaching year starts

Motorists have been reminded to keep a look out for children with school zones back in place from next week when the new school year begins.

Director of safe systems and programs at Transport for NSW, Melvin Eveleigh said school zones are back in operation and are clearly marked with flashing lights and school zone signs.

“Children are some of our most vulnerable pedestrians and their safety should be everyone’s concern,” he said.

Mr Eveleigh said school zones are generally in place from 8 to 9.30am and from 2.30 to 4pm, and motorists who don’t obey the rules face heavy fines and demerit points.

“I’m reminding motorists to be vigilant in school zones by sticking to the speed limit and obeying the rules,” he said.

“Take particular care around bus stops, school crossings and kiss and ride zones where children are often present in higher numbers.

“And remember whenever bus lights flash, it is vital everyone slows down to 40kmh because this means a bus is picking up or dropping off children.

“Just a couple of kilometres over the speed limit could be the difference between being able to stop in time or not at all.”