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Pass a school bus with flashing red lights, collect up to six demerit points

Even if someone else is driving your car at the time
school bus stop AdobeStock_201099335
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NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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BLIND RIVER - The East Algoma Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind the public that students have returned to school after being off for the summer break. Additionally, it is important for drivers to be extra vigilant and to pay attention to the flashing red lights and other safety equipment used on buses.

It is illegal to fail to stop for a stopped school bus that has its overhead red signal lights flashing. For a first time offence, you can be fined from $400 to $2,000 and have six demerit points added to your licence.

In Ontario, school-bus drivers and other witnesses can report vehicles that have illegally passed a school bus. The Highway Traffic Act stipulates that the registered owner of a vehicle can be charged.

The next time you are driving and see a school bus, give it space, ease off the gas, and remember that it could stop at any time. A moment's inattention can bring devastating consequences.

If you witness a vehicle failing to stop for a school bus call police immediately. As motorists you have the responsibility to adhere to the rules of the road. Please STOP for flashing lights on school buses. 

"Everyone can do their part to contribute to traffic safety. Keep an eye out for school buses and drive safely through school zones," says East Algoma OPP Detachment Commander Inspector Tyler Sturgeon.

For further information on school bus safety, please visit the website

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