More than 17,000 fines issued for speeding or running red lights around South Australian schools

More than 17,000 drivers were caught speeding or running red lights around SA schools last year – see the list of our worst danger spots.

More than 17,000 drivers were caught breaking road rules around schools last year, figures obtained by RAA reveal.

These 17,467 offences cost drivers more than $6.5m in total fines in 2020, and have prompted a warning for motorists and parents to beware of the hazards around schools.

The majority of fines were for motorists caught on fixed cameras speeding (15,089) and running red lights (2061) at school pedestrian crossings.

The latest police figures also show officers detected drivers speeding in 25km/h school zones (304), and failing to give way at school crossings (13).

RAA senior manager of safety and infrastructure Charles Mountain said the figures were “alarming”.

But COVID-19 restrictions – which led to many motorists being off the road for a period during 2020 – a reduction in camera-identified speeding from 20,494 in 2019 to 15,089 last year, and a drop in running red lights at school pedestrian crossings from 3044 to 2061.

Mr Mountain said with the new school year beginning and many more cars on the road, tens of thousands of students were at risk from bad behaviour.

“Speeding, running red lights and failing to give way can have potentially catastrophic consequences,’’ Mr Mountain said.

“Pedestrians – especially young children – are among the most vulnerable road users and RAA urges motorists to exercise vigilance and caution around schools.’’

Mr Mountain reminded drivers to observe the 25km/h limit when students were present in school zones, and he warned motorists to watch out for children at these locations.

He also said school crossings would once again be in use during drop-off and pick-up times.

“Also, be aware that pedestrian crossings with traffic signals on major roads near schools will be in more frequent use from today,” Mr Mountain said.

“Remember parked vehicles can also make it harder for drivers to spot younger children trying to cross the road, and be careful not to double park or park in driveways when dropping off or picking up the kids.’’

Mr Mountain said traffic volumes would also be impacted by the commencement of Term 1.

“With the return to school comes an increase in traffic, so commuters should allow more travelling time if they’ve been leaving a little later over the past couple of months,’’ he said.

The RAA will help to educate more than 20,000 primary aged students and more than 2000 preschool children about road safety this school year. RAA’s Street Smart Primary educators will visit more than 250 schools and 50 kindergartens across SA.

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