Subscribe to the 100% free rdnewsNOW daily newsletter!

Lacombe Police reminding public about road safety

Sep 1, 2017 | 5:36 PM

With school back in session, the Lacombe Police Service is again reminding the public that road safety needs to be top priority for drivers, pedestrians, parents, students and cyclists.

Motorists are reminded to pay extra mind to school buses and pedestrian traffic coming and going from buses. The most common offence motorists commit is “failing to stop for a school bus” which can result in a fine upon conviction.

The Lacombe Police Service recommends the following tips for motorists when approaching a school bus that is preparing to stop:

When approaching the bus from the opposite direction, ensure that you stop at a safe distance away from the front of the bus
When approaching the bus from behind, the recommendation is that drivers stop at least 20 meters away from the back of the bus
Once the lights have stopped flashing and the safety arm folds away and the bus begins to move it is safe to continue driving

Motorists must also remember to obey the posted speed limits in school zones. The speed limit in these areas is 30 km/hr. School hours are as follow:

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

With the increase in pedestrian traffic as a result of students coming and going from school, the Lacombe Police Service feels the public should be reminded of a few safety tips as follows:

Pedestrians should only cross the street at corners or in crosswalks
If there is a pedestrian crossing signal then students should use it
Walk when crossing the road, do not run
Pay attention while crossing the street, do not use your cellphone or talk to others as this may be distracting, and as a result you may not see traffic coming towards you
Ensure that you make eye contact with the drivers before you cross the street
Always walk on the sidewalk

The Lacombe Police Service notes there are many students utilizing bicycles to get to and from school and offers additional tips for them as follows:

Ensure that your bicycle is in good working order
Have front and rear lights on your bike if you ride at dusk, night or in low visibility conditions
Keep a safe distance from the curb and parked cars
Stay off the sidewalks
Stop for stop signs and red lights and always yield to pedestrians
Always ride with traffic, on the right side of the road
Always wear a helmet. In the Province of Alberta, it is the law for anyone under the age of 18 to wear a helmet

Lacombe Police Service Chief Lorne Blumhagen said unfortunately the majority of injury collision in Lacombe involves pedestrians or cyclists.

“It is our responsibility, as a community, to ensure our students are safe as they return to school so please walk, drive and cycle safely and responsibly.”