Police remind public to stop and not pass school buses

The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police along with area school bus drivers would like to remind all drivers that a stopped school bus with its red overhead flashing lights and extended stop arm requires all approaching drivers to stop and not pass by the bus. 

Drivers should also adjust their speed and be aware of e! xtra vehicle traffic and pedestrian traffic during school times in school areas and zones.

Points to Remember

• Focus 100 per cent of your attention on the road and put away unnecessary
distractions. 

• Slowdown in school zones and respect the posted speed limit. There will be a high volume of students traveling between home and school by bus, on foot and by bicycle.  

• Be aware of school buses with their yellow then red flashing lights activated. The fine for passing a school bus with its red lights activated is $490 minimum and six demerit points.

In response to an increase in complaints of vehicles not stopping for school buses in Dufferin County, officers will be conducting extra patrols during school hours. Drivers that are found in violation will be served a Provincial Offences Notices for “Failing to stop for a School Bus” that comes with a price tag of $490.00 and six demerit points upon conviction. I STOP YOU STOP

Members of the Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police are committed to public safety, delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities. Officers value your contribution to building safe communities.

For more information please view the following Ministry of Transportation link at ontario.ca/document/official-ministry-transportation-mto-truck-handbook/stopping-school-buses