There will be a lot more vehicles on the roads Tuesday as thousands of students head back to class.
Cpl. Jullie Rogers-Marsh, media relations officer with the New Brunswick RCMP, said officers will be out patrolling to keep people safe.
Rogers-Marsh said they want drivers to slow down and pay attention, especially around school zones.
With school buses on the roads, she said this could mean longer commute times for people heading to work.
“We’re asking that everyone be patient and watch for the flashing bus lights and students on the side of the road waiting for the bus,” said Rogers-Marsh.
Traffic in both directions must stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing. Drivers must wait until the bus driver has turned off the red lights before proceeding.
School zone speed limits will also come into effect again on Tuesday.
School is back in session next week and drivers are reminded to keep our roads safe for students. pic.twitter.com/Fq1kAOphbJ
— Government of NB (@Gov_NB) August 26, 2019
Rogers-Marsh said there are several things students can do, such as walking on sidewalks whenever possible.
“If you’re looking to cross a street, make sure you make eye contact with the motorists and make sure that they see you and stop the vehicle completely before you cross the crosswalk,” she said, noting you should give yourself enough time to get to school on time.
When waiting for a school bus, students should stand back from the road until the bus stops completely.
Members of the Saint John Police Force will be handing out red flashing light awareness cards to ensure student safety.
“Keep in mind the number of students who walk to school and need you to be alert when approaching a crosswalk or intersection,” said Sgt. Mike McCaig, head of the traffic division, in a news release. “It only takes one second to change several lives forever.”
During the 2018-19 school year, Saint John police issued four violations for failure to stop for a school bus with flashing lights and 20 complaints to follow up on.
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