By JESSE GRAHAM
DRIVERS are being urged to slow down as of Thursday, with lower speed limits in school zones coming back into force as kids make their way back for first term.
As of Thursday 28 January, school zone speed limits will come back into effect for the first term, with limits dropping to 40km/h or 60km/h around schools in the state.
Limits will be in force from 8am to 9.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm on weekdays, regardless of whether the school campus is open.
Acting Premier and Monbulk MP James Merlino urged drivers to be safe and to be wary of kids crossing roads around schools, to ensure a safe beginning to the year.
“The start of the school year is an exciting time for students, and sometimes safety may be the last thing on their mind,” he said.
“Drivers need to be extra cautious and look out for kids as you drive through school zones.”
He said drivers should also be aware of children on bikes, and that the lower speeds in school zones are designed to help protect children from serious injury or death if hit by a car.
Permanent speed signs, time-based signs or flashing lights may be in place to warn drivers of the lower speed limit, and the lower speeds must be adhered to.
Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol Leading Senior Constable Graeme Rust said that police will “undoubtedly” be out, enforcing the school zone limits during the coming weeks.
“We should always be aware of our speeds in and around schools, and high pedestrian areas, to prevent any serious injury collisions involving pedestrians,” he said.
The school zone speeds will not be in force on public holidays, and will finish with the school term on Thursday 24 March.
