🚌 School Bus Safety Laws 🚌
Every driver has seen a school bus with its stop sign extended and lights flashing, but many people are unsure of exactly when they are required to stop. The truth is, the law is very strict — and the penalties are serious.
Flashing Red Lights Mean Stop
When a school bus stops and extends its stop sign, with red lights flashing, all vehicles must come to a complete stop. This rule exists to allow children to safely enter and exit the bus.
Traffic in Both Directions Must Stop
On a two-lane road, traffic going both directions must stop for a school bus. The only exception is if there is a physical divider or median between lanes of traffic — in that case, only the traffic moving in the same direction as the bus must stop.
Passing a Stopped Bus Is Illegal
Passing a school bus that has stopped with red lights flashing is a serious offense. Penalties may include fines of several hundred dollars, points on your license, or even license suspension in some states.
Why These Laws Exist
Children are most vulnerable when crossing the street to get on or off the bus. Many tragic accidents have occurred because drivers ignored school bus laws. These strict rules are designed to prevent those accidents and protect young lives.
When in doubt, always stop. Following school bus laws is not only the legal thing to do, but also the safest choice for children, drivers, and the community.
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