Slow down as kids go back to school

National Road Policing manager Superintendent Carey Griffiths said motorists needed to take extra care as schools across the country reopen over this week and next.

As children head back to school this week, police are reminding motorists to take extra care on the roads to safeguard our most vulnerable road users.

National Road Policing manager Superintendent Carey Griffiths said with schools across the country reopening over this week and next, and with traffic flows in these areas returning to normal levels, motorists needed to take extra care.

"Let's do everything we can to safeguard our kids as they walk and cycle to school; some of them for the first time."

Excited children could be unpredictable and still building their confidence on bikes and being independent placing them at risk, Mr Griffiths said.

"New pedestrians and cyclists are still building confidence and don't have ability to anticipate dangerous situations.

"They are vulnerable road users, so it's critical that we encourage them to take extra care," he said.

Along with more foot traffic, more motorists will also be on the roads. "With many families getting back into the routine of the school drop off and pick up, there is going to be more congestion on the roads in and around school areas."

"It's important therefore that all drivers be aware of their speed and keep a watch out for children, particularly as there will be more kids walking, cycling and bussing to school. This means sticking to the speed limit, giving cyclists plenty of room and travelling at no more than 20km/h past a stationary school bus."

Motorists are also reminded that there is a permanent reduced 4km/h speed threshold in place around schools, which has been active since 2007.

"Children can be unpredictable, so motorists need to be well prepared to stop safely in and around school zones," Mr Griffiths said.

"Returning to school is often an exciting time for kids as they rush to catch up with friends, so they can be easily distracted and may not be paying as much attention to their surroundings."

He encourages parents to re-establish safe walking and biking habits with their kids, even if it is a well-travelled route.