Police are warning motorists to slow down around schools as thousands of students return to class this week for the first term of 2025.
Forty eight pedestrians were killed in Victoria last year, including three children aged 12 years or under who were all at, or commuting to and from school when they were hit by a vehicle.
In an effort to prevent similar tragedies, police will have an increased presence around schools this week to ensure motorists take care as children cross roads.
Motorists are also urged to consider the safety of school crossing supervisors as they step out onto roads to help children cross safely.
Police say speed and distraction are major factors in collisions around schools and that officers will be looking out for motorists not adhering to reduced speed limits or using mobile devices while driving nearby.
State Highway Patrol Inspector, Nicole Yin said everyone needed to take extra care when travelling in school zones.
“Children are amongst our most vulnerable road users. They’re less developed physically, cognitively and have less experience around traffic,” Inspector Yin said.
“It’s up to all of us to ensure kids are protected.”
Inspector Yin said protecting school kids crossing the road began at home.
“We’re also asking parents, carers and teachers to talk to children about the importance of road safety and teach them to stop, look, listen and think when crossing the road,” she said.
“Slowing down means everyone can get to school and return home safely.”
Nearly 13,000 speeding infringements were issued by police between 6am and 9am, Monday to Friday in the last financial year, with many occurring in school zones during drop-off and pick-up periods when there is an increased amount of pedestrians.
Police also witnessed and issued 42 infringements to motorists for failing to stop at a children’s crossing over the past three financial years from July 2021 to June 2024.
The penalty for failing to stop and remain stationary at a children’s crossing is $494 and three demerit points.
For more information, visit: https://www.police.vic.gov.au/road-safety
