Source: Mental Health Australia
Motorists are reminded to slow down and remain vigilant with school zones back in force from Monday 13 October, as Term 4 commences in NSW.
40km/h school zones are generally in place from 8 to 9.30am and from 2.30 to 4pm, and although Monday is a school development day at some schools, some students still return to school tomorrow, so school zones will be in place and will be enforced.
Transport for NSW Executive Director Transport Safety, Chadi Chalhoub, said motorists have a responsibility to help keep children safe on the road.
“There are more than 6,800 school zone flashing lights in place across NSW to let motorists know they are about to enter a school zone,” Mr Chalhoub said.
“When entering a school zone, you can expect vulnerable children to be out and about, so it’s important motorists follow the rules to ensure every child gets to school and returns home safely.
“This includes following the speed limit in school zones, watching out for children when they are crossing, and slowing down and looking out as they get on or off buses.
“Children can be curious and unpredictable around roads, so drivers need to be aware of their surroundings when travelling through school zones.
“Drivers who disobey road rules and gamble with the lives of children will face higher penalties and risk losing their licence.
“If you are walking with your child, please remember to hold their hand when out and about, and practice Stop! Look! Listen! Think! with them every time they cross the road. Keep checking until they safely reach the other side,” Mr Chalhoub said.
For more information on school zones, please visit https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/community/schools/school-zones.