School Bus Safety

One of the most dangerous violations that occur is when a vehicle passes by a school bus when the red lights are flashing. The red lights flash when the bus is either loading or unloading passengers. The last thing on the minds of most school age kids when they get on or off of a bus is safety. That is why laws like this are enacted and enforced, to protect children.

The statute that pertains here is in the Motor Vehicle Code, section 257.682. It states that if there is a school bus stopped on a road with its red lights flashing, you must stop at least 20 feet from that bus. The only exception to this is if a school bus is stopped on a divided highway and you are traveling in the opposite direction.

Some frequently asked questions:

1. How long do I have to stay stopped?
Your vehicle must stay stopped until the bus driver waves you by or the red lights are turned off.  Stop no closer than 20 feet from the bus.

2. Do I have to stop for yellow flashing lights?
Yes, if it can be done safely. The yellow lights on a school bus are just like the yellow lights on a traffic signal. In both cases, the yellow lights are followed by red lights.

3. How can I get a ticket if the Police didn’t stop me?
If anyone witnesses you driving past a school bus with its red flashing lights on and they get your license number, they can call the police. The buses in Western School District have two-way radios in them so the bus drivers can notify the police within minutes.

4. Why is the penalty so severe for this type of traffic offense?
The main reason is because of the possible consequences involved for passing a school bus when kids are getting on and off. At one time this law was a misdemeanor punishable by arrest. Today it is a civil infraction that will cost between $125.00 and $225.00 in fines and add three points to your license. The magistrate can order you to perform up to 100 hours of community service at a school as well. Driving past a school bus with its red lights flashing is a dangerous situation that has grim consequences that none of us wants to face, the injury or death of a child. The school bus is designed for safety, the drivers are trained to safely transport kids and the kids are taught how to safely get on and off the buses. The most important factor in their safety however, is you, the driver of a several thousand pound automobile. A hasty decision on your part may result in something no motorist wants. Like the bumper sticker says: “School’s Open - Drive Carefully”.

What students should know:

When waiting for the bus:

• Stay a safe distance from the roadway.
• No pushing or horseplay.
• When the bus arrives, stay away from the wheels.