OPP issue reminder for school bus safety

Ontario Provincial Police is reminding the public to be extra vigilant on roadways, as school gets underway next week.

A study conducted in May of this year by the Independent School Bus Operators Association found a number of infractions reported by bus drivers.

The study shows that approximately 151 incidents occurred during a five-day span, where vehicles failed to stop for school buses with flashing lights. In 75 per cent of these cases, ISBOA says the vehicles were approaching from the front of the bus.

“As drivers, we know that at certain times of the day we can expect to encounter school buses during our travels. Drivers need to be vigilant and pay attention to the flashing red lights and other safety equipment used on buses. Our children’s safety depends on it,” says West Region OPP Traffic Inspector Ian Chappell.

Drivers must come to a complete stop in front of or behind a bus with its lights on and stop sign out or face charges.