Congestion, illegal parking, impatience and mobile phone distraction are the top daily school drop-off and pick-up gripes, according to an RAC member survey.
The RAC school traffic survey found just under half of the 726 people surveyed said heavy congestion at school drop-off or pick-up was something they witnessed every day.
Illegal parking was a daily occurrence for 48 per cent, followed by impatience at 37 per cent and pedestrians distracted by their phones at 36 per cent.
Respondents also said they regularly witness drivers not using indicators, tailgating, and parking too close to others.
Speeding was also an issue, with a third saying they witnessed it daily in school zones.
RAC General Manager External Relations Will Golsby said the high volume of traffic during school start and finish times meant all road users needed to be on alert.
“School traffic is busy and often chaotic, so we’re urging parents and caregivers to follow the rules, drive at the speed limit, be courteous to other drivers and watch out for pedestrians,” Mr Golsby said.
“Our survey has shown impatience, distraction and speeding remain major issues around schools, so it's important to slow down, ditch the distractions, and to allow a little bit of extra time.
“With congestion a top daily gripe, it’s always worth considering if walking, cycling or catching public transport are viable options to avoid school traffic frustrations.
“RAC welcomes the WA Government’s move to make public transport free for students, and we continue to advocate for better active travel infrastructure to help make it easier for kids and parents to walk or cycle to school.”
ENDS
Media contact: Lauren Cherry, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
