Close calls, but no charges in North Bay school bus safety blitz

From June 22-26, police monitored seven school bus routes “identified as having the highest risk for stop-arm violations,” police said in a news release July 3. (Supplied)

North Bay police say they are glad that no one was charged during a weeklong safety enforcement blitz involving school bus zones in the city.

From June 22-26, police monitored seven school bus routes “identified as having the highest risk for stop-arm violations,” police said in a news release July 3.

“Officers followed school buses, ready to intercept and charge drivers who failed to obey activated red school bus signal lights,” the release said.

“The initiative, which featured high police visibility on bus routes and in community safety zones, was successful, resulting in zero offences. (Police) received only one complaint regarding school bus lights for the entire week in the 400 block of Worthington Street East, which is being investigated.”

While no one was charged, there were cases of drivers suddenly braking when the bus got close, including locations on Airport Road, Gormanville Road, Lakeshore Drive, McKeown Avenue, and Norwood Avenue.

In Ontario, buses equipped with stop sign arms first flash amber lights, a sign to drivers that the bus is about to stop.

Don’t try to beat the light

“Once the bus door opens, red lights activate and all traffic must stop immediately,” police said.

“Motorists are urged not to attempt to ‘beat’ amber lights.”

Drivers must stop at least 20 metres behind a school bus when its red signal lights are activated. All traffic in both directions must stop unless separated by a median.

Failing to stop or leave a 20-metre distance could mean a $490 fine and six demerit points.

In some cases, the registered owner of the vehicle may be charged if the driver cannot be identified, and charges may be laid up to six months after the offence.

“Many school buses are also equipped with exterior video surveillance systems to assist in enforcement,” police said.

North Bay police are planning school bus safety initiatives for the upcoming school year.

“This will include monitoring school bus routes for students with disabilities, as some drivers have been observed becoming impatient and proceeding while students in wheelchairs are still in the process of boarding,” the release said.

“(Police) thank the community for continuing to drive safely in our community. We wish all students a safe and happy summer.”