Back to School: School Bus Safety

After being out of school for over a year, there are a few things that you might need to brush up on as we approach the new school year – one of those being things school bus safety! 

Passing a School Bus

For drivers, it’s important to remember that passing a stopped school bus is a serious traffic violation and one that is heavily enforced. The penalty for passing a stopped school bus is a $500 fine*.

All drivers must remember…

• On a two lane road, a two lane road with a center turning lane, and on a four lane road without a median traffic going BOTH directions must stop. 
• On a divided highway with over four lanes and on a road with four or more lanes and a centering turn lane, only traffic following the bus must stop. 

School Bus Safety Rules

• Remind your child to talk quietly and behave on the bus so the driver does not become distracted.
• Keep your belongings in front of you. It’s important to keep the aisles clear!
• NEVER cross the street in front of the bus. Always go behind the bus and if you need to go in front of the bus for whatever reason, tell the bus driver first. 
• Stay out of the road when waiting at the bus stop. 
• When walking to or from the bus stop, stay on the sidewalk! If there is no sidewalk do your best to stay out of the road!
• In Wake County, as of the time this blog post was published, your child MUST wear a mask on the bus and social distance!

Share this information with friends and family to ensure your child is as safe as they can be this school year!

*Check with your local law enforcement for other penalties and fines.