Dangerous drivers in school zones targeted by cops in Mississauga, Brampton

Drivers who speed through school zones and disobey school bus signals are squarely in the sights of Peel Regional Police officers who are flooding Mississauga and Brampton school areas starting Tuesday morning to make sure tens of thousands of students are safe as they return to the classroom.

Police say drivers need to remember that with the reopening of schools this week, the roads and sidewalks near those schools will be busy with young students returning to classes.

Police said in an earlier news release that they’ll be dedicating many officers to school areas/community safety zones starting Sept. 5 in efforts to make sure motorists are driving safely in and around those locations.

Police say they’ll be taking a tough stand in response to any drivers who disobey the rules of the road close to schools, especially those related to speeding and school bus safety.

“Our officers are working hard to ensure that the rules of the road…are followed to keep kids safe. Those breaking the road rules can expect a zero-tolerance approach and will be issued tickets accordingly,” police said in the news release.

Though they’ll be targeting unsafe drivers, police say their safety message also goes out to cyclists and pedestrians.

“After an extended time away from riding on school buses, children will again be out on neighbouring streets as they commute to and from school on school buses,” police say. “When a school bus has stopped and activated its flashing red lights, all vehicles travelling behind or approaching the bus must come to a complete stop before reaching the bus. Drivers who fail to stop when the flashing red lights are activated and the stop sign deployed face a fine between $400 and $2,000 and will receive six demerit points for their first offence.”

Police add that for drivers convicted a second time within five years, the penalty is a fine of $1,000 to $4,000 and six demerit points.

Parents are also being encouraged by police to go over safety rules with their children.

“As students get back into the habit of getting on and off their school bus safely, parents are encouraged to review and practice safety rules with their children, ensuring they are familiar with their bus route, safety on and off the bus and pedestrian safety tips,” police say, adding safety tips are available on the Peel police website.

As school begins today, this is a quick reminder to drivers to be vigilant of buses picking up & dropping off students & school zone speeds. Kids that are walking to school make sure to use the crosswalks. Let's make this a great first day. pic.twitter.com/vzc2WXt0gB

— Peel Regional Police (@PeelPolice) September 5, 2023