Passing A Stopped School Bus Is Dangerous And Costly
What is the most dangerous part of the school bus drive? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, it's the bus stop. Here's why it's vitally important that motorists and children pay particular attention at the bus stop.
- Children are at the greatest risk when they are getting on or off the school bus.
- Most of the children killed in bus-related crashes are pedestrians, 5-to-7 years old, who are getting on or off the bus. They are hit by the school bus or by motorists illegally passing a stopped bus.
- Elementary school children become easily distracted and may start to cross the street without warning.
- Elementary school children don't understand the danger of moving vehicles and can't judge vehicle speed or distance.
- Elementary school children may be unable to see beyond the bus.
- Most importantly, children expect vehicles to stop for them at the school bus stop.
Therefore, NHTSA says, it's vitally important that children are properly taught the right way to get on and off the bus safely,
Here are the basic safety rules:
- When boarding, stay away from the danger zone and wait for the driver's signal. Board the bus in a single file.
- When unloading, look before stepping off the bus to be sure no cars are passing on the side of the road. Move away from the bus.
- Before crossing the street, take five "giant steps" ou from the front of the bus, or until the driver's face can be seen. Wait for the driver to signal that it's safe to cross.
- Look left-right-left when coming to the edge of the bus to make sure traffic is stopped. Continue to watch for traffic while crossing.
According to NHTSA, parents should check with their school transportation office or police department to find out more information on their state's law regarding school bus stops.
But here are the standard rules, according to the agency:
- Motorists coming to a school bus from either direction must stop when the bus displays flashing red warning lights and extends the stop signal arm. These signals show that children are getting on or off the school bus.
- Vehicles may not pass until the flashing red lights and signals are turned off.
- Drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus are always required to stop.
- In some states, drivers moving in the opposite direction on a divided roadway also are required to stop.
- Never pass on the right side of a bus, where children enter or exit. This is illegal and can have tragic results.
If you fail to stop for a school bus picking up or discharging students in Pennsylvania, the fine is $300, loss of license for 30 days, and 5 points on your driving record.
Violation of these laws can result in a citation and fine, NHTSA points out.
In many places, school bus drivers can report passing vehicles, the agency warns.
For more information, call the NHTSA Auto Safety Hotline at (888) DASH-2-DOT or visit the NHTSA web site, http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov.