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With thousands of children returning to class this week, Manitoba Public Insurance is urging motorists to stay alert around schools and bus routes.
“Children are not always predictable, so for motorists and parents, the focus needs to be on the road,” said Maria Campos, MPI vice-president and chief customer and product officer, in a release.
“Reduced speed in school zones helps slow everything down and allow for extra reaction time.”
Drivers must stop at least five metres behind a school bus when its red lights are flashing and can only proceed once the lights stop and the stop sign retracts. Oncoming drivers must also stop to allow children to cross safely. MPI reported 119 school bus–related collisions in 2024.
The insurer reminds Manitobans to use crosswalks, watch for school buses and safety patrols, allow space for kids on bikes or skateboards, and use designated drop-off zones when driving children to school.
