The Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is reminding Halifax motorists and others throughout the province to slow down in school areas. Slowing down may help prevent pedestrian accidents, and slowing down is necessary anytime that children are present, morning or night.
According to a health promotion specialist for a health center, pedestrian injuries are the number one cause of death for kids under the age of 15. She said that reducing the speed by even a small amount can have a significant effect in reducing the risk of serious injuries for drivers and pedestrians. Drivers who are in school zones are encouraged to reduce their speed, be alert and assist the community by creating a safer environment. Nova Scotia drivers who speed in school areas may face doubled fines if caught.
In September 2012, new legislation was passed that requires drivers to reduce their speed in school zones. The law requires individuals who are in 50 km/h areas to reduce their speed to 30 km/h whenever children are present. If the area has a speed limit higher than 50 km/h, motorists must reduce their speed to 50 km/h in the school area.
Speeding is a common cause of car accidents, as well as motorcycle accidents and pedestrian accidents. If a victim is injured due to the negligence of a driver, a Halifax personal injury lawyer may be able to assist them by filing a personal injury lawsuit. To be successful with the claim, the lawyer must show that the defendant acted in a negligent manner, which may be proven by showing that drunk driving, distracted driving or speeding played a part in the auto accident. Compensation may be available to the victim for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Source: Daily News, « Drivers reminded to slow down in school areas« , September 03, 2013