The Department of Transport’s Road Safety Unit are reminding motorists to take extra care around the Island’s schools as the children return to school after their summer break.
The Road Safety Unit is responsible for the School Patrol Service and the Manx Cycle Proficiency test which takes place in all primary schools around the Island.
Regrettably last term there were a few incidents where motorists failed to stop when directed to by a school crossing patrol officer and enquiries are continuing into these incidents.
David Quirk MHK, Member for the Highways Division, said "The School Crossing Patrol Officers are a very dedicated and enthusiastic team who play a very important role in keeping the Islands’ children safe on their way to and from school.
"It is an offence to drive through a crossing when signalled to stop and all motorists who fail to stop will be reported to the Isle of Man Constabulary.’
From today (Monday 14th September), there will also be cycle training courses taking place near various primary schools around the Island.
The course locations will appear weekly on the Roadwatch website and reminders will be made via the radio stations on a daily basis.
Areas where the courses are taking place will be signed in advance and drivers should proceed with care and give their fellow road users, the school children who are under instruction, the care and attention they require.
David Quirk MHK, Member for the Highways Division, added, "Last term, a couple of drivers failed to give the necessary attention to cycle instructors and action has been taken against them.
"The instructors erect warning signs and cyclist’s taking part always wear high visibility clothing so there can be no excuse for motorists not knowing where training is taking place."
The advice to motorists is simple, take extra care when approaching school crossing patrols or a Cycle Training area and give them time and space.
For more information on where cycle training will be taking place this week please visit the Roadwatch website at www.gov.im/roadwatch
