The Law - Stop means stop

Motorists are bound by the 1984 Road Traffic Act to stop for school crossing patrols (SCP). Police are concerned about the risk to both SCP and members of the public when drivers fail to stop.  Investigations of reported incidents have resulted in prosecutions, with offending drivers receiving points on their licences in addition to substantial fines.

For many years people have asked: “Why can’t we cross the road with a SCP if they are already there helping children to cross?  Why doesn’t this service extend to all pedestrian users?”

The Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984 has now been amended and since 30 January 2001, allows school crossing patrols in England and Wales to help pedestrians, regardless of their age, who want help to cross the road. Drivers are therefore legally bound to STOP for any pedestrian being helped across the road by a SCP.

STOP MEANS STOP

In order to raise awareness that drivers must STOP for a SCP. The STOP MEANS STOP campaign was launched in Luton in September 2001. A car sticker and leaflet were distributed to every child at primary schools in the borough and we hope to continue with the campaign annually. The purpose of the campaign is to make drivers aware that under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 is an offence if they do not stop for a SCP.