BCAA survey reveals bad driving habits in school zones in effort to keep students safe

BCAA has revealed the results of a survey on bad driving habits in school zones as students prepare to go back to classes. 

The organization conducted the survey in hopes the results will remind motorists to slow down, stay alert and follow school zone rules to keep students safe. 

The survey of British Columbians found that 80% of respondents had witnessed drivers fail to stop for students at marked crosswalks, 84% had seen distracted driving occur and 91% had witnessed drivers speeding in school zones. 

According to BCAA, these results underscore widespread concerns about driver behaviour around schools.

“As we enter back-to-school season, it’s important to remember that every decision we make behind the wheel matters,” said Linda Lawlor, associate manager, community impact at BCAA. 

“When we slow down and stay focused, we’re helping create safer journeys for students, families, and entire communities.”

Along with the survey results, BCAA have provided school zone safety reminders for drivers. 

The organization urges drivers to slow down and check signs in school zones. The standard school zone speed limit in BC is 30 km/h from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on school days, unless otherwise posted. 

Throughout BC, some communities have adopted extended hours or all-day school zone speed limits, so drivers should always check local signage and be aware of the rules in their municipality. 

Similarly, playground zones remain 30 km/h from dawn to dusk every day of the year.

BCAA also asks drivers to remember to stop for pedestrians, follow the direction of crossing guards and student patrollers and eliminate distractions such as cell phones, eating, adjusting the stereo and having conversations. 

Along with the reminders for drivers, BCAA also provided safety tips for families and students. 

Those walking to and from school are reminded to use marked crosswalks and make eye contact with drivers when crossing, and to use designated drop-off and pick-up zones if receiving a ride to school. 

BCAA also encourages walking, cycling, carpooling or parking a block or two from school and walking from there to help reduce congestion around schools, and for parents to know the age rules for e-bikes and e-scooters. 

In BC, e-bike and e-scooter riders must be at least 16 years old to ride on public roads. Furthermore, light e-bikes can be ridden from age 14, provided the e-bike meets BC’s requirements, including pedal-assist only, a maximum 250-watt motor and a maximum assisted speed of 25 km/h. 

Helmets must always be worn by standard bicycle, e-bike and e-scooter riders in BC. 

“Every September brings a familiar rush as families settle into new routines, but safety can’t be an afterthought,” said Lawlor. 

“Children are among the most vulnerable road users, and there’s still work to do to keep them safe in school zones. It may sound obvious, but slowing down, staying alert and following school zone rules can make a big difference.”

The findings of the survey conducted by BCAA were recorded from June 13th to June 16th, 2025, from a sample of 800 adult British Columbians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum.