As students across BC return to school in a matter of days, it’s important that we all play our parts to ensure kids get to and from the classroom safely. By staying alert, slowing down and respecting school zone rules, every driver can help make the start of the school year a safe one for every family.
Driving safely near schools might sound like common sense, but research from BCAA on school zone safety reveals there is still significant concern about dangerous driving behaviours near schools. The survey found that 91 per cent of respondents have witnessed drivers speeding in school zones, 84 per cent have seen distracted driving and more than 80 per cent have witnessed drivers failing to stop for students at marked crosswalks or pedestrian bump-outs. These results are from a BCAA survey conducted in 2025.
These findings show why annual reminders about school zone safety remain as important as ever. Here in British Columbia, some communities have adopted extended hours or all-day school zone speed limits – so checking the signage within school zones is important. Unless signage says otherwise, the standard school zone speed limit in the province is 30 km/h between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Alternatively, playground zones remain 30 km/h from dusk to dawn all year round.
With school back in session, there will be increased pedestrian activity around schools as students and parents travel to and from the classroom. Drivers should proceed with caution, stop for pedestrians at marked crosswalks and follow the instructions of crossing guards and student safety patrols. Collisions can happen in an instant, which is why eliminating distractions, including mobile phones and other in-vehicle distractions, is critical whenever you’re behind the wheel.
Road safety is a shared responsibility. As drivers do their part by slowing down and staying focused, families and students can contribute by crossing at designated locations and using designated pick-up and drop-off areas. These small actions make a big difference in reducing congestion and helping everyone arrive safely at their destination.
Drivers should be especially mindful around school buses, which transport thousands of students to and from school across the province each day. School buses make frequent stops to let children on and off. When a school bus has its red flashing lights on, drivers travelling in all directions must stop as required by law and remain stopped until the lights are no longer active.
As another school year begins, let’s all take the opportunity to refresh our understanding of the rules that help keep children safe. Whether you’re driving, cycling, walking or dropping off a student at school, the choices you make can help create safer roads and stronger communities. By working together and putting safety first, we can help ensure every student arrives at school and returns home safely each day.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC.
