Stricter Speeding Penalties Enforced in B.C. School Zones

As students return to classrooms across British Columbia this September, stricter penalties for speeding in school zones are being enforced. In these areas, the speed limit is set at **30 km/h** on school days from **08:00** to **17:00**. Failure to comply can lead to fines ranging from **$196** to **$253**, along with three penalty points on a driver’s licence.

For those exceeding the speed limit by **40 km/h** or more, the consequences are even more severe. Fines can escalate to between **$368** and **$483**, accompanied by three penalty points and the possibility of a seven-day vehicle impoundment. Additionally, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) may impose a Driver Risk Premium, resulting in increased insurance costs long after the citation is settled.

New Measures to Enhance Safety

This fall, Vancouver is expanding its “school slow zones,” which will reduce speed limits to **40 km/h** on arterial streets and **30 km/h** on collector streets near schools. New signage will be introduced around **15 schools**, including **Tupper Secondary**, **Eric Hamber**, **Emily Carr Elementary**, and **St. Patrick’s**. In a recent statement, **Mayor Ken Sim** emphasized the importance of vigilance during this back-to-school period. He remarked, “Kids are excited to get back to class and see their friends and teachers, and we want to make sure they get to school safely every day.”

Furthermore, the City of Vancouver is maintaining safety initiatives such as the **School Streets** program, which restricts vehicle traffic next to specific schools during pick-up and drop-off times. The **Walking School Bus** initiative is another program designed to encourage children to walk in supervised groups, enhancing their safety.

It is important to note that not all municipalities in British Columbia adhere to the same school zone regulations. For example, **New Westminster** and **Burnaby** have extended their school zone hours to **07:00** until **22:00** on school days, which is significantly longer than the standard **08:00** to **17:00** timeframe observed in most communities across the province.

Increased Enforcement in Metro Vancouver

Police forces throughout Metro Vancouver are increasing their enforcement efforts in school zones during September. According to ICBC data, an average of **380 children** are injured annually in British Columbia due to accidents while walking or cycling. Authorities are urging drivers to adhere to speed limits, particularly in school zones, to protect the safety of children.

As students begin a new school year, the message is clear: slowing down could prevent costly fines and, more importantly, save lives.