UPDATE: Millions of drivers in New South Wales are under urgent warning as school zone speed limits are reinstated today, coinciding with the start of the new school term. With hefty fines reaching up to $246 for speed limit violations, motorists are urged to remain vigilant as children return to school following a two-week spring break.
Effective immediately, school zones will enforce a speed limit of 40 km/h between 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to these rules to ensure the safety of vulnerable children during peak hours.
Chadi Chalhoub, Executive Director of Transport Safety for Transport for NSW, stated,
“When entering a school zone, you can expect vulnerable children to be out and about, so it is important that motorists follow the rules to ensure every child gets to school and returns home safely.”
He highlighted the presence of over 6,800 school zone flashing lights across the state, designed to alert drivers as they approach these critical areas.
Motorists should note that penalties vary based on the driver’s license type and the severity of the violation. A driver with a full license who exceeds the speed limit by 10 km/h or less will incur a $246 fine and four demerit points. For heavy vehicle drivers, the stakes are even higher; exceeding the speed limit by 45 km/h can result in a staggering fine of $4,643 and seven demerit points.
As students gear up to return to classrooms, parents and guardians are reminded to prepare for increased pedestrian traffic and to encourage safe driving practices. With more children on the roads, slowing down and watching out for youngsters getting on or off school buses is crucial for ensuring their safety.
Authorities are closely monitoring compliance with these regulations, especially as families transition back to their school routines. Motorists are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with the updated rules and adjust their driving accordingly to avoid penalties and, most importantly, to protect the lives of children.
As the day unfolds, drivers across New South Wales are urged to stay alert, respect speed limits, and contribute to a safer school environment. With the academic year now in full swing, the call for accountability on the roads has never been more critical.
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