DRIVERS in Casey are urged to slow down in school zones as students are back in class.
Reduced 40km/h and 60km/h speed zones came back into effect last week as schools reopened across the state.
Police are warning drivers to slow down or face hefty penalties.
Senior Sergeant John Felton from Casey Highway Patrol said police would be focusing on drivers in school areas.
“Casey Highway Patrol will again be patrolling around schools across Casey during Term 1 as looking after our school children is very important to us and we hope very important to all our road users,” Sen Sgt Felton said.
“We ask drivers to pay particular attention to their speed around schools and don’t forget the reduced speed limits that apply during school times. “We ask those parents or carers who do the school drop off and pick to pay attention to the parking signs and restrictions around your school. “These restrictions are designed to provide safety for our children so please obey all parking signs and never double park to drop off or pick up, it’s just too dangerous.”
Road Policing Inspector Greg Parr said drivers needed to remember the whole point around slowing down in these areas was to protect children.
“Children get excited seeing their friends again after the holidays and can be unpredictable – motorists must slow down and obey the speed limit,” Insp Parr said.
“Driving safely in school zones is also about not being distracted, not using your mobile phone and pulling over safely and legally when you drop the kids off or pick them up.
“Parents are key role models in teaching their children basic road rules, so make sure you’re setting a good example – always wear a seat belt, wear a helmet when riding a bicycle and always use school crossings.”
Insp Parr said there could be fines of up to $704, loss of licence and vehicle impoundment for excessive speed which he hoped would act as a strong deterrent for people tempted to ignore the speed limit.
“Being hit in the hip pocket with a fine is really where it’s going to hurt the least,” Insp Parr said.
“Killing or seriously injuring a young child would cause far more pain and heartache so please, be extra cautious as school goes back. Consider this your warning now because we don’t want to hear excuses when we pull you over.”
Reduced speed limits will apply around school zones in the morning from 8am to 9.30am and in the afternoon from 2.30pm to 4pm.
