Drivers in the Midlands are being warned they could face a £70 fine and three penalty points on their licence if they fail to stop for school crossing patrols. Warwickshire County Council has issued a stark reminder to motorists to obey the law near school streets, following a worrying increase in incidents where drivers have ignored lollipop ladies and men.
Council Issues Urgent Plea
Warwickshire County Council's Road Safety Education team is urging all drivers to stop when a School Crossing Patrol displays their 'STOP' sign. While most law-abiding and courteous drivers comply, a shocking number of motorists are putting vulnerable road users, especially children, at risk.
Recently, two school crossing patrols were hit by cars in neighbouring Coventry, highlighting the dangers these workers face daily. The council is reminding drivers that it only takes a few minutes for a patrol to safely cross pedestrians, and they must stop when instructed.
Increase in Incidents and Abuse
School crossing patrols in Warwickshire, identifiable by their high-visibility uniforms and warning signs, have reported a worrying rise in drivers not stopping and even instances of abuse and aggression. Rosalie Taylor, Senior Road Safety Officer at Warwickshire County Council, explains: "By law, as soon as a School Crossing Patrol raises their sign, even if they have not stepped into the road, motorists must be prepared to stop if it is safe to do so. There is no excuse for not stopping."
Penalties and Enforcement
Motorists caught committing moving traffic offences, such as failing to stop for a school crossing patrol, could face a £70 fine and three penalty points on their driving licence. Cllr Stephen Shaw, Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Transport and Planning, said: "The Council is committed to making our roads a safe place for children and other pedestrians, and our patrols are a vital community asset in that. It is essential that motorists understand that it is an offence not to stop when a School Crossing Patrol displays the STOP sign. They have the same authority as a police officer to stop traffic. Failing to stop puts vulnerable road users and our staff at risk. Our School Crossing Patrols are instructed to report any driver who fails to stop to the Police, which could result in prosecution."
