Drivers are being urged to slow down and be extra cautious around school zones this week, with reduced speed limits in place from Thursday 28 January outside schools across Victoria to keep kids safe as they return to classrooms for 2016.
“The start of the school year is an exciting time for students, and sometimes safety may be the last thing on their mind.” Acting Premier James Merlino commented “Drivers need to be extra cautious and look out for kids as you drive through school zones.”
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Luke Donnellan explained that Speed limits will drop to either 40km/h or 60km/h in the mornings from 8:00 to 9:30am and the afternoons from 2:30 to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday. Donnellan added that Drivers must obey reduced speed limits outside all schools on these days even if an individual school is closed.
“Keeping children safe is everybody’s responsibility. Slow down, look up, and be alert.” Mr. Donnellan commented “When we send our children to school we expect them to come home safe and sound at the end of the day.”
Mr. Donnellan explained that speed limits are clearly signposted with permanent speed limit signs, advance warning signs, time based signs or electronic variable signs, so that everyone is aware of the safer speeds. Donnellan also added that reduced speeds in school zones keep our most vulnerable road users safe in a busy traffic environment. Young children can be unpredictable, fast, and difficult to see. A small reduction in speed can dramatically increase the chance of a child surviving being hit by a car.
Mr. Donnellan said that parents and carers are also urged to be extra vigilant and take care during drop-off and pick up times. All children should be in the appropriate restraint for their age and size, parking restrictions should be obeyed and drivers should keep clear of the children’s crossings and take care not to double park.
Term 1 school speed zones will be in place from Thursday 28 January 2016 to Thursday 24 March, except for public holidays.
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