A CAMPAIGN has been launched to clamp down on all motorists who refuse to stop at school crossings.
It is feared that some drivers are putting lives at risk by refusing to stop for school crossing patrols, otherwise known as ‘lollipop’ people, and are continuing to drive around them in the road.
Drivers could now face fines of up to £1,000 and three penalty points if they refuse to stop their vehicles as part of the campaign by Warwickshire County Council.
In November 2015, two accidents were reported at one school crossing site and patrols in the area later reported a further eight cars sped up when approaching the crossing.
Local police have been informed on the issue. However Warwickshire County Council officers say that many school crossing incidents still go unreported.
School crossing patrols provide a vital service by helping children cross the road safely on the way to school. They also retain a key role in making our streets safer and encourage more active and safer travel.
By law, under the Road Traffic Act 1988, when a crossing patrol raises their stop sign, even if they have not completely stepped out into the road, all drivers must be prepared to stop and wait until all pedestrians have crossed safely.
Prompted by hearing of several accidents and near misses Councillor Les Caborn, Portfolio Holder for Health, said: “The school crossing patrols do their bit every single day to make Britain’s roads safer and they also do a fantastic job of keeping pedestrians safe on the roads. I am very shocked to hear of the abuse some have to put up with.
“As part of the campaign to make the crossings safer, this year Warwickshire County Council will be promoting stop signs near local school crossing areas to alert people to slow down and driving more carefully.”
