School to resume for Term 3 – 40kmh speed zones back in force on Monday

With students heading back to the classroom for the start of Term 3 from next week, motorists are being reminded that reduced speed limits of 40kmh around schools will be back in force.

From Monday 12 July, 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 Term 3, 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.

Areas surrounding Maroondah schools are clearly signed to indicate the 40kmh speed limit. Some are permanent 40kmh zones, whereas some only apply to specific time periods. The few exceptions to these school zones include time-based 60kmh speed limits outside schools on 80kmh roads, such as Maroondah Highway.

“Speed limits displayed are the maximum legal speed and motorists should always drive to conditions and within the speed limit – which may mean slowing down even more outside schools when necessary,” Cr Steane added.

He also urged students to not use their mobile phones or earphones when crossing the road.

“This message also applies to parents who are picking up children – don’t use your mobile phone or headphone devices when driving, even when stationary behind the wheel. Not only is it illegal, but it is important that your attention is always on the road,” Cr Steane said.

“Distractions are one of the leading causes of accidents, so it’s vital that both motorists and students observe and obey road safety rules,” he said.

Speed limits in school zones are communicated with permanent speed limit signs, advance-warning signs, time-based signs and electronic variable signs.

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.