School zone speed limits return

School zone ahead: Police are reminding motorists that with the return of school comes the return of school zone speed limits. Photo by Jamie Salter

As the start of the school year begins, police are asking motorists to be aware of school zones in their area.

Students start returning to school from Monday, January 31, and Shepparton police Senior Sergeant David Gillespie said drivers needed to remember the 40km/h speed limit is back between 8am and 9.30am, and 2.30pm to 4pm.

Sen Sgt Gillespie said motorists should drive to the conditions.

“Pay attention to everyone in the area,” he said.

“There are also a lot of schools in regional areas where the speed limit changes from 100km/h to 40km/h.

“School zones aren’t just in built-up areas.”

In particular, Sen Sgt Gillespie asked drivers to look out for Preps who are unfamiliar with roads.

“These little kids are going to be excited about getting to the classroom,” he said.

“People have got to be mindful that Preps might be unfamiliar with crossing the road.”

Sen Sgt Gillespie also warned commuters to stay alert when passing the new Greater Shepparton Secondary College campus as students get used to the new area.

“It’s going to impact bus routes and while the area is used to school zones there, things have changed,” he said.

Anyone who witnesses dangerous behaviour on the road – particularly within school zones – should contact Shepparton Police Station on 5820 5777 or dial 000 if it is an emergency.