School zones are back in effect across Winnipeg on Tuesday, and that means drivers need to slow down and pay attention. The City is also stepping up enforcement, keeping an eye out for drivers who failed to keep their speed under 30 when passing near schools.
Mobile photo enforcement vehicles are already stationed near schools throughout the city in an effort to once again get drivers used to slowing down to avoid accidents involving children.
Luna Zuniga was an educational assistant who was performing crossing duty two years ago when she was struck by a car going over 50 kilometres an hour. She hopes Winnipeg drivers will slow down for school zones, but she has her doubts.
“I think most people want to do the right thing, but I think sometimes it’s just too tempting, or I think life just gets in the way. If you’re late for work, you know, speed up a little bit,” said Zuniga.
Zuniga is still recovering from the injuries she sustained two years ago at the corner of Grant Avenue and Lanark Street. She claims even more people have been hit at the very same crossing.
“It was another staff member. I would hope that we continue to fight for justice and to find something that works for both people who are doing a job and for the drivers who are trying to get to work,” said Zuniga.
Zuniga says she would like to see reduced speeds in school zones year-round, not just the 10 months that schools are open.
“Kids use the schools during the breaks; they do, a lot of the kids do. It’s not as full as it is during school, but a lot of kids find safety in a place that’s familiar to them, and that’s usually on the school grounds.”
CityNews reached out to the Winnipeg police for comment; we did not hear back.
Kelvin High School. (Sofia Frolova, CityNews)
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