Back to School: What Ontario Motorists Need to Know
The back-to-school season brings busy sidewalks, school buses on the move, and more young pedestrians on Ontario roads. For motorists, it’s a critical time to refresh your knowledge of provincial safety laws. Ignoring them can lead not only to steep fines and penalties but also to risks that no driver should be willing to take.
Pedestrian Safety in Ontario
Ontario’s pedestrian safety laws require drivers to stop and yield the entire roadway at pedestrian crossovers, school crossings, and at crosswalks with a crossing guard present. Drivers must remain stopped until pedestrians have completely crossed the road. Failing to do so can result in hefty fines, demerit points, and increased insurance risk.
School Bus Safety and Penalties
One of the most important rules is that when a school bus has its stop-arm extended and red lights flashing, drivers in both directions must stop (unless on a divided highway). Penalties are steep:
- First offence: fines of $400–$2,000 and six demerit points.
- Repeat offences: fines up to $4,000, six demerit points, and possible jail time.
Passing a stopped school bus isn’t just illegal, it’s extremely dangerous. Children may be crossing from all directions and can be challenging to see.
Important Reminders
- School Zone Speeds: Speed limits in school zones may be lower during school hours and are strictly enforced. Automated speed cameras are increasingly common in these areas.
- No Passing in School Zones: Even if children aren’t visible, exercise extra caution; kids can be unpredictable, especially during the exciting first few weeks back to school.
- Cyclist Awareness: Many students ride bikes to school. Always give at least 1 metre of space when passing cyclists, as required by Ontario law.
- Extra Patience: Morning and afternoon traffic will take longer with buses stopping frequently; plan your commute accordingly.
Drive with Care, Protect Our Kids
Safe driving during back-to-school season means being patient, vigilant, and respectful of the rules designed to protect children. Every choice you make behind the wheel can have lasting consequences. At Insurance Hunter, we encourage drivers to put safety first; for themselves, for their passengers, and for the next generation.