NORTH BAY — Northern Ontario school bus operators are pleased with the news that the province is doing more to help combat the ongoing problem of drivers who run through school bus stop signs.
“Any actions taken by any form of government in regards to targeting drivers in regards to passing school buses is a step in the right direction,” said Mike Brideau, branch manager with Alouette Bus Lines.
As part of those changes, the government will allow school bus camera footage admitted as evidence in cases relating to vehicles running school bus stop signs.
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Brideau says Alouette already utilizes cameras on some of their buses. He believes the new regulations will make a difference.
“It's much easier now for a driver,” he said.
“The old saying goes, ‘a picture paints a thousand words,’” he continued.
“Now with being able to show the other vehicle by utilizing our cameras it is definitely going to help with prosecutions.”
Brideau adds that bus operators are not out to get the general public about the issue. They just want them to respect the rules.
“We want people to be aware of what they're doing,” he noted.
“Know your surroundings when you're driving. The little boy or girl getting of the bus could be your son, daughter, nephew, niece, grandchild, your neighbours child. It doesn't really matter who the child is...it's a child's life that you could be putting in danger so stop for the red,” he exclaimed.
