By realinsurance.com.au
Whether you’re a driver or cyclist in Victoria, remember to slow down in school speed zones around school times. Be alert to signs reminding you that you’re in a school zone and slow down, as kids are unpredictable and can be hard to see.
Speed limits in school zones
You’ll be subject to different speed limits depending on the type of school zone, so pay extra attention to the signage to make sure you’re staying safe for yourself and the kids when on the road.
40km/h in most cases
In most cases, the speed limit in a school zone is 40km/h if the original speed limit is less than 80km/h, and 60km/h when the original speed limit is 80km/h or higher.
Advance warning signs tell you when you’re approaching but not yet in a school zone. They will tell you the applicable speed limit when you enter the zone.
Permanent 40km/h zones
In permanent 40km/h zones, the speed zone, as the name suggests, is always 40km/h. Permanent school zones are usually marked by a fixed, painted (not electronic) sign that tells you to stay at 40km/h (or applicable speed) at all times.
Time-based zones
In these zones, speed limits apply between 8 and 9.30am and 2.30 and 4pm on school days. The signage will tell you the times during school days when you need to adhere to the stricter speed limit.
Variable zones
In these zones, the speed limit can change depending on time and traffic conditions. Electronic signs alert you to the applicable limit.
Signage
Get to know the different types of signage for more information about staying safe around schools.
40km/h sign
All school zones are signposted in Victoria. The 40km/h sign is probably the best indication you’re entering a school zone, so watch out for these and slow down immediately.
Children’s crossings
If the flags are up at a children’s crossing, you’re required to stop for pedestrians who are crossing or waiting to cross. You need to remain stationary until the crossing is completely clear. These stopping rules apply even if there’s not a crossing supervisor on duty.
Yellow edge lines
Look out for yellow edge lines that warn you against stopping or parking near the line.
No stopping signs
If there’s a ‘No Stopping sign’, you’re forbidden from stopping at the kerb regardless of your reason.
Tips for staying safe in school zones
In addition to driving slowly and under the speed limit, use these general tips to stay safe in school zones.
Supervise
Supervise your children and hold their hands around roads.
Reduce traffic
Reduce traffic congestion by walking or busing to school.
Pay attention to signage
Always be alert to changing signage and follow the applicable speed limit and rules.
Meet your child
Meet your kids on the same side of the road where they’ll be waiting rather than having them cross the road to you.
Kerbside doors
Remind kids to use kerbside doors on cars and not the doors on the traffic side.
View the full regulations on the Victoria government site
www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/vehicle-safety/child-restraints