Hopefully Durham drivers will prove they can behave – especially with visible police presence in and around school zones – and dramatically reduce the traffic violations recorded during last year’s back-to-school police campaign.
Durham police said a year ago, more than 1,100 tickets were issued during ‘In the Zone’ traffic safety blitz, including:
- 527 speeding tickets
- 16 distracted driving (cell phone) violations
- Five stunt driving charges
- 17 careless driving charges
Now, as students return to classrooms across Durham Region from tomorrow, the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) is reminding motorists to slow down, stay alert, and help keep school communities safe.
Beginning Tuesday, September 8, DRPS officers from Traffic Services and all divisions will take part in the annual ‘In the Zone’ traffic safety blitz. The campaign will focus on school zones and community safety zones throughout Durham Region during the first weeks of the school year.
Focus On These Violations
Through increased police presence and proactive enforcement, officers will target dangerous driving behaviours that put students, crossing guards, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk. Enforcement efforts will focus on speeding, distracted driving, failing to stop for school buses, stunt driving, and other high-risk traffic offences.
The In the Zone campaign aims to improve safety around schools by encouraging drivers to obey posted speed limits, eliminate distractions, and exercise extra caution during peak school travel times.
With thousands of students walking, biking, and being dropped off at schools each day, motorists are reminded that even a small reduction in speed can significantly improve safety and reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a collision.
Social Media Ride-Along
On the first official day of school, Tuesday, September 8, DRPS will be taking the public behind the scenes of the campaign through a live social media ride-along with traffic services officers beginning at 8 am. Residents and media are encouraged to follow DRPS on social media throughout the day for real-time updates, enforcement highlights, and important back-to-school safety reminders.
DRPS thanked school boards, crossing guards, school staff, parents, and community members for their continued support in helping keep Durham Region’s roads safe.
Motorists are encouraged to remember: Slow down. Stay focused. Drive responsibly, police said.