Calls for drivers to be careful ahead of new school term

The Assistant Chief Constable is urging parents and road users across Belfast to plan ahead for busier rush hours and heavier traffic.

Alan Todd says over the summer we've benefittted from lower levels of traffic and shorter journey times.

But the PSNI officer says people should leave more time for their journeys now the new academic term has started.

I am scared, excited, tired. I am 4, I may not look or see you. It's my first day at school #SlowDown@RoadToZero pic.twitter.com/gxhrDZkvuV

— PSNI North Belfast (@PSNIBelfastN) September 5, 2016

There's a call on parents to make sure their young people are in high visibilty clothing and not to be distracted by mobile phones or music when crossing the road.

“Parents should ensure that high visibility clothing and bags are worn and carried by children and that they highlight the importance of road safety, in particular, how to cross the road safely – looking both ways without being distracted by friends, mobile phones or seemingly walking in a daze with earphones connected to music players. Pupils should also only cross where it is safe, preferably at pedestrian crossings."

Police are going to be paying special attention to roads next to schools over the coming weeks.

“Police will be paying special attention to roads close to schools in the first few weeks of term and where offences are noted, whether for speeding, inappropriate parking around schools or allowing children to travel unrestrained, they will be issuing advice, guidance, warning and when appropriate, fixed penalty tickets which carry three penalty points.

“Everyone needs to take personal responsibility for road safety,” Assistant Chief Constable Todd said.

Acc todd says drivers should watch their speed and look out for kids on bicycles or out walking.