The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Oxford detachment will be conducting a traffic safety initiative during the first two weeks of the school year.
“Operation Safe Start” will take place September 8 to 11 and September 14 to 18 throughout Oxford County, with officers focusing on traffic safety around schools and along school bus routes.
As the school year begins, Oxford County sees increased traffic volumes during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up periods. These conditions can increase the risk of collisions, speeding, distracted driving, pedestrian conflicts and violations involving stopped school buses.
Student safety remains a priority, particularly in school zones and at school bus loading and unloading locations where children are most vulnerable.
During Operation Safe Start, Oxford OPP officers will conduct targeted enforcement throughout the municipalities of Oxford County. Officers will monitor motorists for compliance with school zone regulations and school bus safety laws, while also educating drivers about their responsibilities. Enforcement action will be taken where appropriate.
Oxford OPP is reminding motorists that they must stop at least 20 metres away when approaching a stopped school bus with its upper alternating red lights flashing. This applies whether the vehicle is approaching the bus from the front or the rear.
Motorists cannot proceed until the school bus moves or the red lights have stopped flashing.
Failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing is illegal. A first offence can result in a fine ranging from $400 to $2,000 and six demerit points. School bus operators and other witnesses can also report vehicles that illegally pass a school bus.
Drivers are encouraged to review Ontario’s school bus stopping laws and help ensure students get to and from school safely.
