Cyclists causing problems for school bus passengers in Powell River

Cyclists riding on bike lanes in Powell River are causing problems for students boarding and departing school buses.

School District 47 transportation manager Shaun Garvey said bus drivers report that with the advent of the new bike lanes in town, such as on Manson Avenue, school buses have to stop on the travelled part of the road to either pick up or drop off riders.

“Cyclists have been ignoring our stop lights/arms and are going up the inside of our buses in the bike lanes, having very close calls with students,” said Garvey. “As road users, they are also required to follow Motor Vehicle Act rules associated with school bus encounters.

“I am sure most of these cyclists are not aware of this and do not recognize the risk to themselves and our passengers.”

Cyclists using bike lanes are urged to stop when school buses are stopped on the road, with lights flashing and arms deployed.

Garvey also said that School District 47 bus drivers report some marginal improvement in driver behaviour since the start of the school year. People driving motor vehicles are urged to stop when they see school buses stopped on the road, picking up or letting off students.

Drivers are reminded that school buses are equipped with forward and rear-facing video cameras that capture infractions. Failing to stop for a school bus, contrary to section 149 of the Motor Vehicle Act, is subject to a $368 fine and three points.