IBC offers back to school road safety tips for motorists

TORONTO, Sept. 3, 2013 /CNW/ - For many children this will be the first day back to school.  With school buses and parents returning to the roads to drop the kids off to class, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reminds motorists to keep road safety top of mind.

"As the schools reopen, there will be increased pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic on the roads. This is a good time for motorists to be extra cautious and take the time to review some road safety tips to help with the transition," says Ralph Palumbo, Vice-President Ontario, IBC.

IBC offers some back to school road safety tips:

• Reduce speed in school zones. Slowing down and being vigilant is crucial to keeping kids safe.
• Be aware of school zone signage.
• Obey the Crossing Guard by following his/her directions. A crossing guard is there to keep children safe.
• Watch for darting children. Kids are small and easily distracted, and for drivers, this can create dangerous situations on the roads. Be vigilant and alert behind the wheel.
• Always try to make eye contact with children waiting to cross the road. Wait for children to complete their crossing before proceeding.
• Motorists traveling in both directions must stop for school buses except if the road is divided by a median.
• If you are driving children to school drop them off in a safe area away from traffic - most schools have designated drop off zones.
• Change lanes early for bicycles, children on skateboards or rollerblades. They should be treated as another vehicle so give them ample space.
• Always leave in plenty of time to get to your destination - running late can cause aggressive driving behaviors.

Sources: Public Safety Canada and Young Drivers of Canada

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, car and business insurers. Its member companies represent 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. The P&C insurance industry employs over 118,600 Canadians, pays more than $7 billion in taxes to the federal, provincial and municipal governments, and has a total premium base of $46 billion.

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If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE: INSURANCE BUREAU OF CANADA

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Helen Lialias
Media Relations Officer
Insurance Bureau of Canada
416-362-2031 x 4312
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