ACT Policing is advising motorists that 40km/h speed limits are in effect in school zones as the new school term starts today (Monday 10 October).

The speed restrictions are in place between 8am and 4pm within sign-posted school zones and police will be targeting speeding in school zones throughout Canberra.

Officer in Charge of Traffic Operations Acting Station Sergeant Ken Hedges urged drivers to drive carefully around schools and adhere to the speed limit.

“It’s important for drivers, particularly those who drive through school zones regularly, not to become complacent about the speed limit,” Acting Station Sergeant Hedges said.

“Slowing down to 40km in school zones is important for two main reasons; it gives drivers more time to stop in an unexpected situation and in the event of a collision it lessens the force.”

Penalties for speeding in school zones range from $257 and the loss of one demerit point for exceeding the limit by less than 15km/h to $1,831 and the loss of six demerit points for exceeding the limit by more than 45km/h.