Child Safety: N.S. to reduce speed limits in school zones – Kids and Cars Canada

The Department of Transportation has announced plans to introduce legislation this fall to reduce speed limits in school zones from 50 km/h to 30 km/h.

The goal of the new limits is to protect students and make roads safer.

Bill Estabrooks, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal stated:

“As a former teacher and principal, I know first hand that road safety is not always at the top of a student’s mind…This reduction in speed could give a driver the extra split second needed to save a life.”

Alberta, British Columbia, and New Brunswick already have a 30 km/h limit in school zones as do many U.S. states.

Three years ago I posted Slow Down and Save a Childs Life! where I called for a reduction in the speed limit in school zones. As a personal injury lawyer I have represented many injured children who have suffered serious injuries as a result of car – pedestrian accidents. I congratulate the government on this move to help improve child safety in our province.

“Speed matters,” said Pamela Fuselli, executive director at Safe Kids Canada. “It’s estimated that a pedestrian struck by a car travelling at 50 kilometres an hour is eight times more likely to be killed than someone hit at 30 kilometres an hour.”

A press relase from the Department of Transportation indicates the legislation is expected to be ready this fall.