Squamish RCMP says it will continue to enforce school speed zones in town.
Even though schools are closed to students, there continues to be staff in schools, Squamish RCMP said. There are schools in the Sea to Sky that are teaching and providing childcare for children of essential workers.
Speeding fines range from $196 to $253. If speed is in excess of 40 kilometre per hour, fines range from $368 to $483.
“In order to keep staff and children safe in our local schools, we will continue to enforce school zones until the end of the school year in June” says Sergeant Sascha Banks.
“We have also seen an increase in use of school grounds mixed with pedestrian and cyclist traffic in these areas. It is a road safety priority to keep school zone speeds in effect and protect those in school areas.”
Citizens can contact the Squamish RCMP with their concerns at 604-892-6100.
Russ says
What a ridiculous statement from Squamish RCMP, there is staff in school during spring break and Summer as well, adults that teach need extra saftey compared to other adults who work. There is better things for those officers to be doing
Joann Daffern says
How Silly – the law is that there is a minimum speed limited when school is in secession. This is when students are attending class. Not when teachers are meeting together.
Herbert Vesely says
How ridiculous.
Does anyone know what the motor vehicle act says about this?
The schools are officially closed under BC’s emergency order.
Seems no different than closure due to Summer holidays.
As in above comments staff could be there in Summer as well – painting, maintenance, teacher’s meetings etc..
Any lawyers out there who want to take this on?
Herbert Vesely says
Had a look at the law on the books in BC:
The Motor Vehicle Act:
https://www.richmond.ca/__shared/assets/Motor_Vehicle_Act9279.pdf
Schools and playgrounds
147 (1) A person driving a vehicle on a regular school day and on a highway where signs are displayed stating a speed limit of 30 km/h, or on which the numerals “30” are prominently shown, must drive at a rate of speed not exceeding 30 km/h while approaching or passing the school building and school grounds to which the signs relate, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., or subject to subsection (1.1), between any extended times that are stated on the signs.
“Regular school day” is not included in the “Definitions” but any reasonable person would know what that is.
Herbert Vesely says
This reply to my email inquiry was received from RoadSafetyBC, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General:
Dear Herbert,
Thank you for your email of May 1st.
While most students remain home during BC’s Covid‐19 emergency declaration, schools are
still open – meaning school speed zones remain in effect.
Sincerely,
Conclusion: please obey school zone signs on all days that would be an ordinary school day if it were not for Covid-19.