The importance of Reduced speed limits in school zones - protecting our children

September 18, 2023, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

In a recent survey conducted by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) among more than 1,500 parents and guardians in Ontario, a striking revelation came to light - an overwhelming majority of these caregivers believe that reduced speed limits and the use of speed cameras are essential for the safety of their children in school zones. With 82% of respondents having witnessed dangerous driving habits near their child's school, the concern for road safety in these areas is growing. In this blog post, we will delve into why reduced speeds are vital in school zones and why contacting Deutschmann Personal Injury Law might be the right step if you or a loved one has been hit by a car in such circumstances.

The Alarming Reality

The CAA survey exposed a troubling reality: parents and guardians across Ontario are deeply concerned about the safety of their children when they commute to and from school. The survey revealed that more than 8 in 10 respondents have personally witnessed hazardous driving behaviors near school premises, including speeding, double parking, and vehicles stopped in undesignated areas. What's even more concerning is that this statistic has increased by 4% since 2022.

Furthermore, congestion is another pressing issue, with over 40% of respondents stating that their children primarily use cars for transportation to school. This increased congestion amplifies the risks associated with reckless driving in school zones, making it essential to address these concerns promptly.

The Call for Reduced Speeds

Parents and guardians have spoken, and their message is clear: the safety of their children is non-negotiable. The survey found that 83% of respondents believe that speed limits in school zones should not exceed 30 km/h. This overwhelming consensus demonstrates the urgent need for reduced speeds to protect vulnerable pedestrians, especially children who may not always be aware of the dangers on the road.

Additionally, 77% of survey participants support the enforcement of these lower speed limits through the use of speed cameras, marking an 11% increase from the previous year. This shift in opinion suggests a growing understanding of the potential effectiveness of automated enforcement in deterring speeding in school zones. Many parents are even advocating for these measures to become a permanent fixture, underlining the importance of ensuring the safety of our children.

Why You Should Contact Deutschmann Personal Injury Law

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car in a school zone, the consequences can be devastating. The physical and emotional trauma, medical bills, and potential long-term consequences require legal expertise to navigate. Deutschmann Personal Injury Law is here to support you during these difficult times.

Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers understands the complexities of such cases and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We have a proven track record of advocating for victims of accidents in school zones and can guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise.

Reduced speed limits in school zones are not just a preference but a necessity to ensure the safety of our children. The recent CAA survey highlights the increasing concerns of parents and guardians, emphasizing the urgent need for change. If you or someone you know has suffered due to reckless driving in a school zone, don't hesitate to contact Deutschmann Personal Injury Law. Your safety and well-being matter, and we are here to fight for your rights and help you on the path to recovery. Together, we can make our school zones safer for all.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

It is important that you review your accident benefit file with one of our experienced personal injury / car accident lawyers to ensure that you obtain access to all your benefits which include, but are limited to, things like physiotherapy, income replacement benefits, vocational retraining and home modifications.