New legislation proposed by Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins seeks to enhance safety for schoolchildren using buses. If approved, the laws will prohibit overtaking school buses when children are boarding or disembarking on rural roads with speed limits of 60mph. This change comes in response to tragic incidents involving young victims, including Caitlin Hogg and Caitlin-Rose McMullan, who lost their lives after exiting school buses.
Currently, there are no legal requirements in the UK for vehicles to stop when school buses are picking up or dropping off children. The proposed laws are part of a broader initiative called the Safer Journeys to School Programme, which aims to address the alarming number of fatalities involving children on school routes. Families affected by these tragedies have been vocal advocates for change, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures.
In addition to legislative changes, the Department for Infrastructure has launched a public awareness campaign to educate drivers and children about road safety around school buses. This campaign emphasizes the importance of slowing down and remaining vigilant in school zones. The combination of new laws and ongoing awareness efforts is expected to create a safer environment for children as they travel to and from school.
As the new school year approaches, the proposed legislation and accompanying safety campaign are seen as vital steps in preventing further tragedies. Families and advocates hope that these measures will lead to significant improvements in road safety for schoolchildren across the UK.
Source: BBC News
