Full Notification

As a community, we need to continue to obey traffic laws and make an effort to be vigilant when operating a vehicle in order to avoid accidents.  Being vigilant and obeying traffic laws is extremely important when approaching a school bus.  The consequences of not paying attention is not only a car accident but seriously injuring a child from our community.  So, what should I know when approaching a school bus?

 

First, a vehicle that approaches a stopped school bus that is displaying flashing red warning lights, must stop not less than 20 feet from the bus and remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or the operator extinguishes the flashing red warning lights.

 

It is common for drivers to stop much greater distances than 20 feet from the bus and this is not to be frowned upon (that is appreciated).

 

This law does not apply to vehicles driving in the opposite direction on a divided highway but does apply if no barrier is present on a multi-lane street or highway.

 

When in doubt whether to proceed or stop, err on the side of caution for the children and stop.

 

Many people may not know but school bus drivers also have requirements by law.  Not only does a school bus driver have to ensure all safety equipment is working and utilized properly during the unloading of children, but they also have to ensure there is no traffic danger before allowing children to cross the highway.  This is a great responsibility that school bus drivers take seriously and oncoming drivers not following school bus traffic laws threaten that responsibility.  Wouldn’t you be irritated if someone didn’t take this great responsibility seriously?

 

Keep in mind, children are conscious of safety but they also are thinking about homework, activities, friends, and family when they exit the bus.  This may lead to not paying attention and moving into ongoing traffic without looking.  Everyone needs to be vigilant when the school bus brakes, the stop sign comes out, and the flashing lights are activated – precious cargo is being unloaded – relax and wait until the precious cargo reaches its destination safely.  You definitely will get a friendly wave from the school bus driver!

 

In regards to accidents within our community,  a 2.5% uptick in a number of accidents this year compared to last year at this time.  To date, 340 accidents have been reported.  Please assist with “driving” this number in the other direction.