Are You Breaking the Law by Passing School Buses?

Passing a stopped school bus is illegal and dangerous, putting children at significant risk of injury or death. With the help of advanced technology, states are cracking down on violators to enhance safety around school buses. This article will explore the laws, penalties, and technological solutions aimed at preventing tragedies like the 2018 bus stop crash in Indiana.

Last updated: 09 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• All 50 states prohibit passing a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended.
• Violating this law can lead to hefty fines and points on a driver's license.
• Over 67,000 violations were reported in a single day by school bus drivers across the US.
• Technology like stop arm cameras is being used to identify and penalise offenders.
• High-visibility enforcement campaigns are essential for improving safety at bus stops.

The Risks of Illegally Passing School Buses

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), from 2000 to 2023, there were 61 fatal crashes involving drivers illegally passing stopped school buses. Although school buses remain statistically the safest mode of transportation for children, the dangers posed by reckless drivers cannot be overstated.

The National School Transportation Association (NSTA) conducted a survey involving 114,000 school bus drivers, who reported more than 67,000 violations of the stop arm law in just one day. This alarming statistic indicates that millions of illegal passes occur nationwide, significantly increasing the risk of accidents involving children.

Understanding the Legal Framework

Every state in the US has laws prohibiting the illegal passing of school buses. The specifics can vary, but the general consensus is clear: drivers must stop when a school bus extends its stop arm and activates its flashing lights.

Common Rules to Follow

The following rules are typically enforced across the majority of states:

• On a two-lane road, drivers in both directions must stop for a school bus with its stop arm extended.
• Drivers behind the bus must also stop when the bus is at a complete stop at a railroad crossing.
• On divided roads with a physical barrier, only vehicles going in the same direction as the bus must stop.

It is vital for drivers to be aware of their local laws, as some states may impose additional restrictions.

The Consequences of Violating School Bus Laws

Penalties for illegally passing a stopped school bus vary significantly from state to state. Here are some common consequences:

• Fines can reach up to £1,000 for first offences in states like Arkansas, California, Tennessee, and Hawaii.
• Violators may face license points that could lead to suspension, particularly in states like Alabama, Georgia, and New Jersey.
• For serious violations causing injury or death, offenders may face felony charges and imprisonment.

Technological Solutions to Enhance Safety

In recent years, technology has emerged as a crucial tool in combating the issue of illegal school bus passing. Virginia-based company Bus Patrol has collaborated with school districts across 22 states, installing cameras on approximately 40,000 buses to identify violators. These cameras are designed to capture footage of vehicles that pass by stopped school buses illegally.

How Does the Technology Work?

Bus Patrol employs artificial intelligence to identify the owners of vehicles violating the law. Law enforcement reviews the footage to verify violations, after which tickets are issued. The administrative tasks, including mailing tickets and scheduling court hearings, are managed by Bus Patrol. This streamlined process aims to increase accountability among drivers and reduce the likelihood of repeat offences.

Since the implementation of this technology in 2017, Bus Patrol has reported that 90% of violators do not repeat their offences. The company also engages with local communities to raise awareness about school bus safety, organising forums to discuss the best practices for ensuring the safety of children.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Community involvement is a critical component of successfully addressing the issue of illegal school bus passing. NSTA's executive director, Curt Macysyn, has highlighted the need for high-visibility enforcement campaigns. However, he acknowledges that many municipalities lack the resources to station police officers at every bus stop.

Legislators like Nevada Assembly member Tracy Brown-May have recognised the need for traffic cameras on school buses to deter dangerous driving behaviours. Brown-May's advocacy for the Bus Patrol technology is a response to the alarming frequency of violations observed in her district, where children are at risk due to high-speed traffic.

Why People Illegally Pass School Buses

Several factors contribute to the alarming frequency of illegal passes. Common reasons include:

• Ignorance of local laws regarding school bus safety.
• Distractions while driving, such as mobile phone use or other in-car distractions.
• Being in a hurry, which can lead to reckless decision-making.

Education and awareness campaigns are essential to mitigate these issues. By informing drivers about the laws and the potential consequences of their actions, authorities can reduce the number of illegal passes.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Fight for Safety

The fight to protect children at bus stops is an ongoing challenge that requires a multi-faceted approach. While technological solutions like stop arm cameras are proving effective, community engagement and education remain vital components of any comprehensive strategy. As the new school year begins, it is crucial for all drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to school bus laws, ensuring the safety of our children on their way to and from school.

How can your local community further enhance the safety of school children at bus stops? #SchoolBusSafety #TrafficLaws #CommunityEngagement

FAQs

What are the penalties for passing a stopped school bus?

Penalties vary by state, but can include fines up to £1,000, points on the driver's license, and even imprisonment for serious violations resulting in injury or death.

How does technology help in enforcing school bus safety?

Technology, such as stop arm cameras, helps identify and penalise drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses, thereby deterring repeat offences and enhancing safety.

What should drivers do when approaching a school bus?

Drivers should stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended and lights flashing, regardless of the direction they are coming from, unless there is a physical barrier separating the road.

Why do drivers illegally pass school buses?

Common reasons include ignorance of the laws, distractions while driving, and being in a hurry. Education and awareness campaigns are crucial to address these issues.

What can communities do to improve school bus safety?

Communities can engage in awareness campaigns, support the installation of technology like stop arm cameras, and advocate for high-visibility enforcement to ensure compliance with school bus laws.