Gloucester Township Police Traffic Safety VIDEO: School Bus Safety
https://youtu.be/Rzoum1PStHc
Many schools in Gloucester Township will be back up and running shortly after Labor Day, as well as the School Buses. Our Gloucester Township Police Traffic Safety Unit, Patrols, and School Resource Officers will be conducting targeted patrols at school bus stops to prevent the illegal passing of school buses who have activated their stop-arm warning and red lights.
School bus safety is SO important for the protection of our Gloucester Township students, and it requires ALL drivers follow the rules of the road. But all too often it appears many drivers either don’t know the rules regarding school buses, or they just choose to ignore the rules.
So what ARE the rules we all need to be following?
- When a school bus flashes yellow lights, slow down and prepare to stop flashing lights indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children.
- Never pass a stopped school bus when the stop sign is out and flashing.
- State Law requires you stop at least 25 feet in front of a stopped school bus, on either side of the road, with its stop sign arm extended.
In general, we all just need to be more cautious in and around school buses, and students have a role to play too.
- Students should wait for the bus to come to a complete stop, with the stop sign out and the door open, prior to entering the roadway.
- Buckle safety belts and remained seated throughout the entire ride.
- Students crossing on and off the bus should look both ways before crossing the
roadway, and walk at least 10 feet in front of the bus to be clearly visible to the bus driver.
If we all follow the rules, we’ll avoid injuries and accidents. And, those that don’t follow the rules, may face penalties. Drivers that improperly pass a school bus are subject to: up to a $250 fine, 5-points on their driver’s license, and up to 15 days in jail, so pay attention.
Let’s all do our part to be more aware of school bus safety. Taking care of our children, and each other, is what makes a great community. That’s why Gloucester Township is a great place to Live, Work and Play.
