Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have already found the need to remind drivers about laws concerning stopped school buses.
With one month gone in the school year, police are warning drivers to slow down and pay attention to buses that have stop arms extended, and overhead red lights flashing.
OPP Constable Steven Duguay added that crossing guards play a vital role in keeping children safe by directing the movement of pedestrians.
Police say the Highway Traffic Act is very clear regarding stopped school buses.
"When a school crossing sign is displayed, the driver of any vehicle approaching the stop sign shall stop before reaching the crossing and shall remain stopped until all persons, including the school crossing guard, have cleared the half of the roadway upon which the vehicle is travelling, and it is safe to proceed," read the Act.
The same applies to drivers who approach a stopped school bus from the front unless there is a median separating both directions of traffic.
Failure to stop for a stopped school bus will result in a minimum fine of $400, and up to $2,000 for a first offence. Subsequent offences may result in fines ranging from $1,000 to $4,000. Up to six demerit points are possible as well.
"Let's prioritize the safety of our children," said OPP Essex County Acting Staff Sergeant Alesia Beauchamp. "Passing a stopped school bus or disobeying a crossing guard isn't just illegal, it's a potentially fatal choice. Taking those extra minutes to wait can prevent a lifetime of regret, injury, or even the loss of a child's life."
A $180 fine and three demerit points are levied on anyone found guilty of failing to obey a crossing guard.
