Sûreté du Québec to increase school zone surveillance

The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) has announced increased surveillance in school zones from August 24 to September 11 to coincide with the return of students. Law enforcement is urging motorists to exercise heightened vigilance and adhere to safety protocols.

Key regulations include respecting posted speed limits, noting that fines are doubled in school zones during designated school periods. When no specific signage is present, these periods typically run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, from September to June. Drivers and cyclists must also stop at least five meters away from school buses with flashing red lights or extended stop signals.

Additionally, motorists are required to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks who have stepped onto the lines or indicated an intention to cross. The SQ emphasizes the importance of following instructions from peace officers, school crossing guards, or construction flaggers, regardless of contrary road signage.