Reckless drivers have forced a local authority to launch drastic measures to equip lollipop ladies with bodycams after a rise in incidents.
Suffolk County Council has launched a new road safety campaign to raise awareness around crossing patrols.
It said the intervention was needed to keep everyone safe on busy roads and ensure drivers adhere to stopping orders when instructed.
The “Lollipops Aren’t Just For Children” campaign was launched at the start of March alongside an advertising campaign reminding drivers of their responsibilities.
Motorists will be instructed to comply with stop signs displayed by more than 55 school crossing patrols across the region.
In recent months, patrol officers have been abused, resulting in Suffolk County Council launching a trial of body-worn cameras.
Following several successful prosecutions, the council has confirmed that it will be introduced around the county.
One incident saw a teenage cyclist verbally abuse an officer in Ipswich on two consecutive afternoons after being asked to dismount from his bike.
Abuse from drivers and cyclists has prompted the council to introduce bodycams for crossing guards
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Another officer in Lowestoft was verbally abused by a man who spat in the direction of the lollipop lady.
Councillor Chris Chambers, Suffolk County Council Cabinet member for Transport Strategy, said the campaign was being launched to ensure drivers show respect to lollipop ladies.
He continued, saying: “While most drivers follow the rules, some continue to ignore stop signals and verbally abuse crossing patrol officers, people – including children – using the crossing, and other motorists who are doing what they are supposed to.
“This sort of behaviour is completely unacceptable and by launching this awareness campaign to remind people of their responsibilities, together we can help make Suffolk’s roads safer for everyone.”
The new road safety initiative has been launched in response to road rage incidents
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SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL
The six-week consultation will be seen across Suffolk on advertising boards on the back of buses, in addition to radio adverts on Heart Suffolk.
Crossing patrol officers will also share video content, highlighting why their roles are so valuable for road safety.
Motorists must stop when instructed by a school crossing patrol or face a £1,000 fine and three penalty points, according to the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
If the incidents escalate and more serious charges are brought against the motorist, they could be banned from driving.
School crossing guards will be wearing bodycams | SUFFOLK COUNTY COUNCILWhile traffic patrol officers are generally associated with helping children cross the roads outside of schools, they also have stronger legal powers.
They have the legal authority to stop traffic for any pedestrian, not just school pupils, as many may assume.
Suffolk County Council encourages residents to use active travel methods when making local journeys as part of its road safety strategy.
