Danger on the school run! Parents urged to park safely as new academic year starts

Parents are being warned of the dangers of parking on the school run as the new academic year begins.
School runSchool run
School run

Police say mums, dads and carers parking close to schools is a ‘significant issue’ across Herts, and are reminding them not to park illegally or dangerously when dropping off or picking up their children.

Insp Phil Bloor from the tri-force road policing unit covering Herts, Beds and Cambs said: “The area outside school entrances must be kept clear to allow an unrestricted view for approaching drivers and riders or children wanting to cross the road.

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“Road markings are there for a reason and drivers must not wait, park or stop to set down or pick up passengers on school entrance markings.”

Parents are also reminded not to park inconsiderately, as it could risk inconveniencing residents and other motorists.

Insp Bloor added: “We want parents and children to get to and from school safely. Parents should be prepared to park a little further away from schools to avoid parking in places which will cause danger to children and to other road users.

“As the nights start drawing in, the risks posed by inconsiderate parking by the small minority greatly increase.

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“If members of the public have any concerns in relation to illegal or unsafe parking outside schools, I would urge them to report it to police on 101.

“We will endeavour to improve safety working with our partners and carry out enforcement action where necessary.”

School run drivers are urged not to stop or park near a school entrance, anywhere which would prevent emergency service access, at or near a bus or taxi rank, or opposite or within 10 metres of a junction, except in an authorised parking space.

They are also warned against parking opposite a traffic island or another parked vehicle if it is likely to cause an obstruction, anywhere which would block a cycle lane or where the kerb has been lowered to help wheelchair users.

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