The Prince Rupert RCMP conducted a road check this afternoon as part of a back-to-school reminder for drivers to slow down in school zones.
“As school is in effect now you'll see more police presence in the school zones,” RCMP Sgt. Dave Uppal said outside of Annunciation School while two other police officers stopped vehicles passing by.
Uppal said the RCMP came out to remind motorists that the first day of school has started and they have to obey the 30km/hour speed zones in school areas, which are in effect 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Most school zones are also within playground areas as well and these areas are included in the 30km/hour speed limit except it is in effect from dawn until dusk.
“The biggest culprits in school zones are usually parents dropping off their kids at school. If parents just take a few extra minutes and plan ahead, it's going to take time to drop off your kids. I think it's important that they leave with some extra time so they can plan that out instead of rushing into the school zones to drop their kids off,” Uppal said.
Penalties for speeding in a school zone ranges from $196 to $483 and three driver penalty points.