Autumn is a season that makes us think of the changing leaves, pumpkin spiced lattes, and back to school! During these unprecedented times, school may be looking a lot different for parents and students this year, but many students are back in the classroom, eager to learn.
Despite what felt like an extended summer vacation this year, school is back in session. This means you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for “School Zones and Playground Zones,” children crossing the streets, and bus stops. Let’s take a refresher course on your memory of speed limits for these zones in Alberta.
Schools Zones and Playground Zones in Alberta
School Zone and Playground Zone hours vary across Alberta in towns and cities. It is best to stay alert and look out for these zones if you are driving through an unfamiliar community.
Calgary and Edmonton have converted all of the school zones to playground zones that are in-effect year-round from 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Calgary boasts over 1200 playground zones and Edmonton has almost 400.
Speed Limits in School Zones
The maximum school zone speed limit in urban and rural communities are typically 30km/hour, unless posted otherwise. School zone hours are typically in effect during school days only and are from:
- 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m;
- 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m; and
- 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
During these times, it’s important to follow the speed limit guidelines and be cautious as children may be walking or playing nearby.
School Zone hours may end around 4:30 p.m, but it is always advised to slow down since children may still be present. It is also a good idea to keep a close eye for playground zones, which are usually located near school zones.
Playground zones are in effect every day from 7:30 a.m. to one hour after sunset, though these hours may be different in each municipality. Typically, the maximum speed limit in playground zones is 30 km per hour, unless posted otherwise.
Speeding Tickets
Keep everyone safe and be mindful of your speed in school and playground zones, it also saves you money too. Fines double if you are caught speeding in any of these areas.Oftentimes, photo radars are set-up.
Drivers should exercise extra caution while driving in these zones. Accidents, injuries, and sometimes death can happen when failing to do so. If you, as a pedestrian, was injured in a school zone or playground zone in Alberta, or you are the parent and or guardian of a child who was injured in this type of accident, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries and other damages.
Contact our team at (780) 900-7941 or (403) 233-0342 to schedule a free initial consultation of your case. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you understand your legal rights and options.