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With children returning to school after their holiday recess, it’s critical for drivers to know the law when it comes to passing a stopped school bus.
New York State traffic laws forbid motorists from passing any school bus that is stopped to drop off or pick up children. When the red flashing lights have been activated, traffic is legally required to stop in both directions on undivided highways.
The Committee also noted that the majority of school bus-related injuries and deaths occur while children cross the street after exiting the bus. Passing a school bus with red lights is punishable with fines ranging from $250 to $1,000. Drivers can also get up to five points assessed to their license. Those in violation also face potential imprisonment: up to 30 days for the first offense and 180 for a third or subsequent conviction.
Community members are being asked to step in by gathering license plate information of drivers who violate this rule.
“We need to work together to insure the safety of our children,” the Committee said.
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