Drivers urged to exercise caution as 40kmh school zones resume

With students heading back to the classroom this week, motorists are being reminded that reduced speed limits of 40kmh around schools will be back in force.

From Thursday 28 January, a reduced 40kmh speed limit will apply on weekdays within school zones across Victoria during the school term.

Drivers must slow down to 40kmh between 8am and 9.30am, as well as after school between 2.30pm and 4pm around school zones.

Councillor Rob Steane, Chair of the Maroondah Liveability, Safety and Amenity Advisory Committee, urged parents and carers to exercise caution and patience when dropping off or collecting children from school.

“With school holidays coming to an end and children heading back to the classroom for the start of a new school year, it’s a reminder for motorists to slow down when approaching schools and observe the 40kmh reduced speed limit. School crossing supervisors will also be back, helping children cross the road safely coming to and from school,” Cr Steane said.

“We all know that school zones are busy areas for traffic and pedestrians and that school-aged children sometimes don’t appreciate the dangers of those conditions. The reduced speed helps drivers to react quickly and avoid accidents,” he said.

“Last year, with children home-schooling for a long period of time their road safety skills might also need a bit of a refresh. So, I encourage parents to spend the time to talk to your children and make sure that they have the skills needed to cross roads safety and have an awareness of vehicles,” Cr Steane said.

Cr Steane said feedback to Council from both motorists and pedestrians early last year suggested children’s safety around schools was being greatly compromised by poor driver behaviour.

“While the majority of people use the designated school parking areas, there have been instances and complaints of drivers illegally parking and stopping in school zones which creates dangerous situations,” he said.

“Vehicles that stop beside parked cars are ‘double parking’ and breaking the law. Double parking interferes with the flow of traffic and can cause accidents,” Cr Steane said.

“Parking rules exist around schools to keep children and others safe. It is imperative that drivers take note of parking restrictions and regulations - they are enforced around schools with regular patrols by Council local law traffic officers. Drivers who fail to abide by the parking rules will be fined accordingly,” he added.

Areas surrounding Maroondah schools are clearly signed to indicate the 40kmh speed limit. Some are permanent 40kmh zones, while some only apply to specific time periods.

Parents are also being reminded to observe physical distancing measures by not congregating in areas around schools. Please keep 1.5 metres from each other while at or around school gates. If you or your child are unwell, please stay at home.