Back to school care

SCHOOL’S been back for a week or two and drivers are being urged to slow down and be extra cautious around school zones, with reduced speed limits in place.

Speed limits have dropped to either 40kmh or 60kmh in the mornings from 8am to 9.30am and the afternoons from 2.30pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Drivers must obey reduced speed limits outside all schools on these days even if an individual school is closed.

School speed zones are designed to improve road safety outside schools while also taking into account issues such as high traffic volumes, peak school pedestrian hours and school holidays.

Speed limits are clearly signposted with permanent speed limit signs, advance warning signs, time-based signs or electronic variable signs, so that everyone is aware of the safer speeds.

Reduced speeds in school zones keep our most vulnerable road users safe in a busy traffic environment. Young children can be unpredictable, fast, and difficult to see.

A small reduction in speed can dramatically increase the chance of a child surviving being hit by a car.

Drivers are encouraged to look out for speed signs on the road, in particular near schools, and slow down.

With summer in full swing, drivers should also watch out for children on bikes – particularly at intersections and roundabouts – or walking on footpaths.

Parents and carers are also urged to be extra vigilant and take care during drop-off and pick up times.

All children should be in the appropriate restraint for their age and size, parking restrictions should be obeyed and drivers should keep clear of the children’s crossings and take care not to double park.

Term 1 school speed zones will be in place until Thursday March 24 except for public holidays.