(PEMBROKE, ON) - The Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind motorists that school buses are returning to area roads very soon with some area schools starting classes on August 31, 2021.
Motorists are reminded to exercise caution due to the expected increase in pedestrians, cyclists and school buses, and to give themselves extra commuting time. Students will no doubt be excited and may forget some of the safety rules required for safe travels.
From August 31 to September 10, 2021 UOV OPP officers will be conducting a focused patrol across the detachment area targeting drivers who disobey traffic laws in relation to school bus safety. A zero tolerance approach will be taken. In accordance with the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) motorists encountering a stopped school bus that has its safety lights and equipment activated shall stop before reaching the bus and shall not proceed until the bus moves or the safety lights and equipment have been de-activated.
This applies whether you are meeting or following a school bus, and includes multi-lane roads. The only exception is when driving on a road with a median - traffic coming from the opposite direction is not required to stop. Vehicle owners can be charged if their vehicle illegally passes a stopped school bus, even if they weren't driving.
The fine for failing to stop for a school bus is $400 to $2000 and 6 demerit points for the first offence. Subsequent offences carry a fine between $1000 and $4000, six demerit points and possible jail time (up to six months).
Drivers should also be prepared to yield to student pedestrians and cyclists. Parents of students who will be walking or cycling to school are encouraged to speak with their children about the rules of the road that apply to them.