Now that the kids are headed back to school, the Ontario Provincial Police in Essex County wants to remind drivers of the rules.
The OPP is asking drivers to be extra vigilant because students, some of whom have not been in a classroom since the start of the pandemic, may not be as watchful as they should be.
"A distraction of a split-second can be enough to cause a devastating collision," said a release from police.
That means slowing down in school zones and near school bus stops.
Drivers are also asked to slow down if they see a school bus and give it lots of space. Remember, it could come to a stop at any time and passing a stopped bus when its lights are flashing is against the law.
"For a first-time offence, you can be fined from $400 to $2,000 and have six demerit points added to your license," said the OPP.
In Ontario, school bus drivers and other witnesses can report vehicles that illegally pass a school bus.
Parents are encouraged to remind their kids about staying on the sidewalks and looking both ways before crossing. Wherever possible, cross the street where there is a crossing guard. If there are no sidewalks, police recommend walking on the left-hand side of the road facing traffic.
Cyclists under the age of 18 must wear a helmet under the provincial law, and they are encouraged to wear bright, reflective clothing to enhance their visibility.
The OPP is stepping up patrols around school zones over the coming weeks.
