Driving Safety Tips for School and Playground Zones

As summer becomes fall we are reminded that students will be returning to school in September. This means more traffic and road stress, so all drivers in British Columbia should familiarize themselves with the indicators that schools or playgrounds are near and use extra caution while driving. Safe driving in school zones is important to avoid car accidents, personal injuries and protect children.

Safety Indicators for Zones Where Children Frequent

All drivers in British Columbia should be aware of the indicators that you are near a school or playground and reduce speed accordingly. Children can be excited, distracted or unsure of proper safety procedures resulting in poor decision making and a heightened risk of an accident with a motor vehicle. Watch for the signs:

What is “Reduced Speed”?

The speed limit in a school zone is 30 km/h between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. during the weekdays. The speed limit near a playground is 30 km/h from dawn to dusk everyday of the year. However, children are known to frequent school playgrounds outside of regular school hours, meaning that speed should be reduced near a school zone 24/7.

Teach Kids Road-Safety Rules

With distracted driving at an all time high, it is important that parents, educators and Good Samaritans teach children proper road rules. This can include:

• Teach your children a safe route to and from school.
• Dress kids in bright colours (especially when overcast or in the evening).
• Always cross the street at a marked crosswalk.
• Crosswalk safety:
  • stop at the curb or edge of the street
  • wait for the walk signal
  • look both ways before leaving the curb (left, right, left, behind and in front)
  • look both ways continuously while crossing the street
  • make eye contact with all drivers
  • don’t run, walk across the street
  • never walk behind a vehicle
• Never assume a driver will see you, make sure vehicles are stopped before stepping onto the street.
• Focus! Put your books and all electronic devices away until you arrive safely at home.

Distracted walking can be just as dangerous as distracted driving.

For more information:

• BC Ministry of Transportation
• BCAA Road Safety Resources
• National Safety Counsel – Pedestrian Safety

If you sustained a personal injury from a car accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP. We represent accident victims throughout British Columbia and will fight to ensure your rights are protected.

Call today at 604.737.3300 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7, and you never pay a cent unless we help you win or settle a case.