The Elk Valley RCMP has seen an increase in drivers passing stopped school buses, posing a danger to children unloading from the vehicle.
Police officials say they have received several reports since early September.
“Since the start of the school year, School District No. 5 in the Elk Valley area has reported over 10 events to the Elk Valley RCMP regarding these types of incidents,” said the Elk Valley RCMP.
Police say tracking down offenders is relatively easy, as SD5’s school buses have high-quality cameras.
“In the majority of cases, the clear and detailed video allows Police to issue fines to the registered owners of said vehicles passing school buses who are unloading students while parked with red lights flashing and stop signs extended,” said police officials.
“In some cases, the driver has indicated upon being served their violation ticket that they were unaware that they are required to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing. One driver in the Elk Valley area was charged twice for this offence on back-to-back days.”
The Elk Valley RCMP says vehicles in all lanes are required by law to stop for a school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended.
“The fine under the Motor Vehicle Act of BC is $368 and 3 points towards your driver’s licence. The cost, however, could be much higher – with loss of life a distinct possibility,” said RCMP officials.
“A fine will be issued in all cases related to this offence against the registered owner of the vehicle when a vehicle plate is recognizable.”
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