Three collisions around the city tied up traffic late Tuesday afternoon as drivers returned to busy roadways at the start of the new school year.
Between 4:30 and 5:18 p.m. two intersection collisions were reported, including one that caused a light standard to tumble in the downtown at Gaetz Avenue and 55th Street, and a rear-end collision damaged three vehicles at 32nd Street and 47th Avenue.
A two-vehicle collision on 30th Avenue north of Ross Street also hampered traffic.
"Despite that little flurry of collisions, it appears there were no real serious injuries as a result of them," said Alberta RCMP Cpl. Troy Savinkoff.
He said with the end of summer and school back in session, traffic has increased especially during peak periods so motorists need to always drive cautiously and make sure they are aware of their surroundings.
"Take your time. Try to be respectful of other users of the road and let's all get to where we're going safely."
Red Deer RCMP want to remind the public to be extra vigilant during the transition back to school. In addition to school buses, they will also see more people walking, cycling or driving to school.
Here are some safety reminders:
• Observe school zone speeds. In addition to before and after school, children are often out throughout the day at recess, lunch, and for some classes, so drive slowly throughout the entire school day.
• Obey the crossing guard. Follow their direction as there may be a child still crossing that you cannot see.
• Watch for darting children. Children are small and can be easily distracted, so drivers must be extra alert.
• Be aware of school buses that are stopped. Slow down and watch for children that may be crossing the road.
• Obey all signs and parking directions in school zones. Do not double park nor park in a no stopping/no parking zone, such as too close to the crosswalk, which makes it hard for other drivers to see children who may be crossing the road.
• Teach children school bus safety. Children should stand well away from the road and stay back until the school bus makes a full stop and doors open, and walk at least three metres (10 feet) away when crossing in front of the bus so they can be seen.
• Teach children how to walk to school safely. Practice the route and discuss safety scenarios. Ensure children can demonstrate how to safely cross the street.
