The City of Sault Ste. Marie and the local police service are urging motorists to prioritize safety when driving in and close to school zones.
There are 42 designated school zones throughout the city. Speed limits within these areas are 40 km/hr and are enforced 24/7, regardless of school hours. Speed fines are doubled in school zones. Drivers should be cautious during the morning and mid-afternoon when children are walking, riding bicycles, being dropped off or picked up by parents, or getting on or off school buses.
When entering school zones:
- Be vigilant. Keep an eye on the surroundings and adhere to posted speed limits.
- Be aware when entering a school zone and be prepared to stop at any moment. Always yield to pedestrians and school buses.
In proximity to school buses, motorists are urged to:
- Drive with caution. Maintain a safe driving speed in the vicinity of school buses.
- Do not attempt to overtake a school bus when its amber or red lights are flashing. This rule applies to both motor vehicles and cyclists.
- Ensure a complete stop at least 20 meters away from the school bus and wait until the bus resumes movement.
Protecting lives at crossovers and with crossing guards:
- Make a complete stop and yield the entire roadway at pedestrian crossovers, school crossings, and other locations where crossing guards are present.
- Follow the instructions of the crossing guards. Stop before the crossing and only proceed once all pedestrians have safely cleared the entire roadway.