Police target school zone driving offences
A police operation targeting child safety around schools began this morning across NSW.
Traffic Services Commander Chief Superintendent John Hartley said ‘Operation Back-to-School’ will run until Friday.
Chief Superintendent Hartley said the Statewide operation targets drivers speeding in school zones, children’s crossing offences, people illegally using their mobile phones, and other traffic offences.
“Operation Back-To-School starts today and looks at all traffic offences, but in particular, drivers speeding in school zones, children’s crossing offences, and people illegally using their mobile phones,” Chief Superintendent Hartley said.
“Speeding through school zones is both illegal and irresponsible and puts the lives of children at risk. The use of mobile phones whilst driving is also illegal, but is fraught with further dangers if the motorist is passing through a school zone.
“Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving causes distractions, and those distractions may cause a driver to fail to see a child run out in front of them. It doesn’t matter if you are just sending a text message, you are still using a hand-held mobile phone while driving, and it is a serious offence.
“Any person detected breaching the road rules, and in particular those relating to school zones, will face the full effect of the law. If caught speeding in a school zone you could face a fine of up to $1589 and immediate loss of your licence. Using a mobile phone while driving carries a $225 fine and the loss of three demerit points.”
