September hits like a freight train: new schedules, early mornings, school zone traffic, carpools, and teenagers who suddenly need the car five days a week. Whether you’re a parent brushing up after years of “mom taxi” duty or a teen juggling school and part-time jobs, back-to-school season is the perfect time to sharpen your skills.At Rhodes Driving Schools, we see more close calls in the first two weeks of school than the entire summer combined. Here’s your complete back-to-school driving survival guide — plus the refresher lessons that make the whole year smoother.1. School Zone Survival: The 30 km/h Rule Is Non-Negotiable
We teach the “3-Second to 6-Second” following distance jump during peak hours and how to predict brake lights three cars ahead.3. Carpool Etiquette That Prevents Drama
Our Back-to-School Safety Package includes a 90-minute fatigue management session that parents and teens attend together.6. Real Parent + Teen Story“After our refresher lessons, my son now leaves 15 minutes earlier, drives the speed limit in the school zone without me reminding him, and actually texts me when he arrives safely. Worth every penny.” – Mark T., father of Ethan, Grade 12
- Speed limits drop to 30 km/h in most school zones from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. on school days
- Fines start at $360 + 4 demerit points for first offences in many provinces
- Children are impulsive — assume every kid will dart out
We teach the “3-Second to 6-Second” following distance jump during peak hours and how to predict brake lights three cars ahead.3. Carpool Etiquette That Prevents Drama
- Be on time — every minute late holds up four families
- No phone use while other people’s kids are in the car
- Agree on music rules upfront
- Keep a spare booster seat if you ever carry younger siblings
- Know your school’s official drop-off loop (pull all the way forward!)
- Never double-park or stop in the driving lane
- Teach your teen to have their bag ready and exit within 10 seconds
Our Back-to-School Safety Package includes a 90-minute fatigue management session that parents and teens attend together.6. Real Parent + Teen Story“After our refresher lessons, my son now leaves 15 minutes earlier, drives the speed limit in the school zone without me reminding him, and actually texts me when he arrives safely. Worth every penny.” – Mark T., father of Ethan, Grade 12