North Bay crossing guard struck by vehicle

Police in North Bay are reminding the public that crossing guard stop signs are the same as fixed signs following a recent collision in the city.

A crossing guard in North Bay was struck by a vehicle recently in the south end of the city.

“Thankfully, the injuries were not life-threatening, but the incident underscores the serious risk posed when drivers fail to obey the law,” police said in a news release Thursday.

“Disobeying a crossing guard isn’t just illegal, it’s a potentially fatal choice,” said Sgt. Greg McClenaghan is quoted as saying in the release.

“Let’s obey the law, protect our most vulnerable and ensure a safer future for all.”

Police said a crossing guard’s stop sign carries the same legal authority as a stop sign at an intersection.

Under the Highway Traffic Act, when a crossing guard displays a stop sign, drivers must stop before reaching the crossing and remain stopped until all pedestrians, including the guard, have safely cleared the roadway.

“Crossing guards are trained and stationed throughout North Bay to manage traffic and create safe opportunities for pedestrians, especially children, to cross the road,” police said.

Fines for disobeying a crossing guard stop sign are $730 in a community safety zone and four demerit points. The maximum penalty is $1,000 and four demerit points.

Report concerns directly to the North Bay Police Service at 705-472-1234.