A new study has revealed that 31 percent of British Columbia drivers admit to speeding through a school zone during school hours at least ‘sometimes’ with four percent confessing they ‘always’ do it when the speed limit is in effect.
The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) survey by Ipsos looked at driver’s behaviour around school zones which, unless otherwise posted, have a 30 km/h speed limit in effect from 8am to 5pm every school day.
Almost every driver surveyed, 91 percent, said they had observed a driver speeding in a school zone during school hours at least ‘sometimes’ over the past two years.
“We want drivers to understand that school zone speed limits are lower for one critical reason: to protect the lives of students, their families, and other road users in and around our schools,” said Kathleen Nadalin, ICBC road safety manager.
“Choosing to ignore these limits is not only breaking the law, it’s putting children at risk. We’re calling on all drivers to follow posted speed limits in school and playground zones whenever they’re in effect, to eliminate distractions, and be aware of children walking, cycling, and getting in and out of vehicles throughout the entire school year.”
According to the ICBC, in September every year, 50 children are injured while walking or biking throughout BC – the highest of any month of the year.
