Kids are back in class and that means, school zones across Greater Victoria are in effect from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days.
According to ICBC statistics, 52 school-aged children are injured and two are killed every year while walking or cycling to school on Vancouver Island. Distraction is the leading factor for drivers in collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists.
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With the staggering number in mind, VicPD issued a series of tips:
Drivers should slow down and use caution when students, families and staff are walking and cycling.
When dropping children off in a vehicle, have them get out on the side closest to the sidewalk if possible.
Teach children the basics of crossing the street, including to stop, look, listen and make eye contact with drivers.
Put away electronics like cell phones, headphones and earbuds when driving, walking and cycling.
It is the dawn of a new school year, and our roads will be busier than usual. Central Saanich urges everyone traveling to use caution and plan ahead when traveling today.
— Central Saanich (@CSaanich) September 5, 2023
We wish everyone a happy and safe school year ahead! #CSaan #SchoolZoneSafety pic.twitter.com/MyL0aZQHa0
The Ministry of Transportation issued an added alert for drivers through Central Saanich as work gets underway on Highway 17 near Keating Cross Road.
Significant traffic congestion is expected along Central Saanich Road and Saanich Crossing Road, near Keating Elementary, during child drop-off and pickup times.
People dropping off or picking up children should allow extra time to account for delays and the ministry urged commuters with flexibility to consider leaving earlier in the morning or later in the evening.
Construction started earlier this summer on the overpass project and is set to run until spring 2025. The flyover aims to improve safety and provide better access for businesses and communities in the area. The project will also realign the southbound on-ramp to Victoria and close Highway 17 access at East Saanich and Martindale roads.
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