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By Sam Bennison

Road safety

ICBC is reminding drivers to watch for students as the school year approaches

Aug 22, 2024 | 5:00 AM

PRINCE GEORGE— Three children are killed and 359 are injured while walking or cycling every year in B.C. That is why ICBC is reminding everyone to drive safe and watch for young pedestrians as school heads back into session.

ICBC will be joining speedwatch volunteers and police at schools to ensure everyone is following the school zone speed limits. That limit is 30 km/h, unless otherwise posted, from 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. In playground zones, a 30 km/h speed limit is in effect every day from dawn to dusk.

Some safety tips for drivers include:

• Watch for school buses. Vehicles from both directions must stop when lights are flashing.
• If a vehicle stops in front of you or in the lane next to you, it may be to allow a pedestrian to cross. Proceed with caution and be prepared to stop.
• Don’t text and drive. Be alert for children walking, cycling, or riding a scooter.
• Walk around your vehicle and check for small children before entering your vehicle. Always check for pedestrians before driving in reverse.
• Ensure all your lights are in working conditions to ensure people can easily see your vehicle.
• Watch for signs of kids playing on the street such as a ball or a hockey net.

Teach your children the basics of crossing the street:

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• Stop at the curb or edge of the road.
• Look left and right for oncoming vehicles, then look left over your shoulder for vehicles that might be turning.
• Make sure all vehicles have stopped before entering the road. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing, even if the walk signal is on.
• When the intersection is clear, start crossing and keep looking for approaching vehicles.

If you’re walking in poor weather or at night, make sure you have bright clothes and reflective gear on.

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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com