Manitoba Public Insurance announced it is providing funding to police agencies to conduct targeted, dedicated enforcement in school zones, and “Do Not Pass” laws pertaining to school buses.
“We all know that too many drivers continue to drive dangerously through school zones and around school buses,” said MaryAnn Kempe, vice-president of Community and Corporate Relations, Manitoba Public Insurance. “Changing driver behaviour involves a three-pronged approach: education, awareness and law enforcement.”
This targeted enforcement campaign to be conducted by the Winnipeg Police Service, Brandon Police Service and RCMP, will begin immediately and is part of a long-standing road safety partnership between Manitoba’s auto insurer and police agencies. Manitoba Public Insurance also funds the highly successful RoadWatch program, which targets drinking drivers.
“Manitoba drivers need to remember that these are our kids trying to get to school safely,” said Andrew Swan, Minister responsible for MPI. “Drivers need to be smart and be safe in school zones and around school buses, to make sure our children get to school without any danger. Just slow down.”
Motorists need to know that they are not allowed to pass a stopped school bus at any time, or other vehicles within a school zone. The fine for passing a stopped school bus is $673. The fine for passing a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian or passing in a pedestrian corridor is nearly $200. Both convictions also come with demerits.
“This funding will allow for the targeted, deployment of traffic enforcement aimed at a specific, dangerous driving behaviour,” said Staff Sergeant Rob Riffel of the Winnipeg Police Service. “The Winnipeg Police will continue to work with our traffic safety partners in ensuring our roadways are safe for all users.”
