Every day, in Bethel Park and across the United States, millions of children in Pennsylvania and beyond rely on school buses to get to and from school safely.
In Pennsylvania alone, approximately 1.5 million children ride school buses daily, traveling over 400 million miles each year.
With such significant numbers, drivers must understand their responsibilities when encountering a school bus. Ignoring the laws regarding school buses can jeopardize young passengers’ safety and result in severe penalties for drivers.
All motorists need to be well-versed in the laws surrounding school bus stops. Here’s what all Pennsylvanian drivers need to know:
- Red Lights Flashing & Stop Arm Extended: When a school bus has its red lights flashing and the stop arm extended, everyone must come to a complete stop. This signal is a clear indication that children are boarding or disembarking from the bus.
- Flashing Amber Lights: If someone sees flashing amber lights on a school bus, they serve as a warning. Slow down and be prepared to stop, as the bus is preparing to signal for children to get on or off.
- Approaching an Intersection: If one approaches an intersection where a school bus is stopped with red lights flashing, one is required to stop regardless of the direction of travel. This is crucial for the safety of children crossing the street to reach their homes or schools.
When stopping for a bus, make sure to keep the following in mind:
- Always maintain a distance of at least 10 feet from the bus: Do not move the vehicle until the red lights stop flashing, the stop arm is retracted, or all children have safely reached the sidewalk or a designated safe area.
The safety of children should always be a top priority. Each day, those 1.5 million children trust their safety to both bus drivers and fellow motorists.
Accidents involving school buses can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. The consequences of passing a stopped school bus are severe, not only for children but also for the drivers involved.
Such negligence can lead to life-altering outcomes for anyone. Failing to adhere to school bus stop laws can result in harsh penalties:
- Criminal Penalties: A conviction can lead to a 60-day license suspension, 5 points on your driving record, and a $250 fine.
- Civil Penalties: If caught by an automated enforcement system, violators can face a $300 fine.
As a community, Bethel Park must work together to ensure the safety of its residents.
Whenever a school bus is seen with flashing lights or an extended stop arm, remember to stop. It’s not just a rule, it’s a shared responsibility aimed at protecting our most vulnerable members of society.
By understanding and following these laws, people can make travel safer for school children every day.
Safety is in everyone’s hands; a small pause in one’s journey can significantly impact a student’s life forever.
