New Brunswick students will start heading back to class Tuesday for the first time in nearly six months.
That means police forces across the province will be stepping up patrols to ensure everyone stays safe.
RCMP Sgt. Mario Maillet said it has been a while since we have seen kids in school zones so drivers may not be as vigilant.
Maillet, who is part of the RCMP’s Tactical Traffic Enforcement Unit, said drivers need to keep their eyes peeled and slow down in school zones.
“The fine for failing to stop for a school bus with red flashing lights is $292. Another thing that they need to know is in school zones, speed fines are doubled,” said Maillet.
For example, a driver who is caught going more than 50 km/h over the post speed limit could be fined $1,200, he said.
If you do see someone committing a violation, Maillet said to record the licence plate if you can do so safely and then contact police.
Maillet said it is important for students to be careful around roadways, especially when crossing the street.
“The main thing is never presume,” he said. “Because the vehicle is coming from a distance, always make sure it stops before you start crossing the road.”
“Also a good thing to practice is if you’re going to school on foot is maybe to go as groups so it’s easier to see people.”
When waiting for a school bus, students should stand back from the road until the bus stops completely.
Maillet said it is important for everyone to do their part to help keep one another safe.
“If everybody takes the time to do all the little things correctly, everybody should be safe and there won’t be any incidents reported,” he said.
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