Hefty fines await drivers who ignore school bus safety rules

A file image of a school bus is seen.

With less than a week until the start of the new school year, parents, drivers, and students are urged to keep school bus safety in mind.

School buses return to the roads on Tuesday, making frequent stops to pick up and drop off students.

Drivers are reminded to come to a complete stop, no matter which direction they are travelling, when a school bus has its stop arm extended and red lights flashing.

Failing to stop for a school bus can result in hefty fines and demerit points.

Drivers caught not following the rules could face fines of up to $2,000 and six demerit points for the first offence, increasing to $4,000 with six demerit points and the possibility of serving time behind bars for up to six months for additional offences.

Police say most school zones have reduced speed limits and increased penalties for drivers not abiding by the rules.

Additionally, several municipalities in Simcoe County, including Barrie, have new photo radar cameras installed in various school zones to ensure drivers maintain road safety.