School bus (Credit: LevittownNow.com)
With students heading back to class and hundreds of buses returning to local roads, TMA Bucks is reminding drivers to use caution and obey Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law.
The law requires motorists to stop at least 10 feet away from a school bus with flashing red lights and its stop arm extended. Drivers must stop in all directions, unless the bus is on the opposite side of a divided highway with a physical barrier such as a median or concrete divider. Even in those cases, officials warn that children may still attempt to cross the roadway.
“Ensuring the safety of our children on and around school buses is a shared responsibility,” said Carly Wible, manager of the TMA Bucks Community Traffic Safety Program. “The Pennsylvania School Bus Stopping Law isn’t just a legal obligation — it’s a crucial measure to prevent needless tragedies and protect children.”
Penalties for violations
According to PennDOT, penalties for ignoring the law include a $250 fine, a $35 surcharge deposited into the School Bus Safety Grant Program Account, five points on a driving record, and a 60-day license suspension.
In addition, school districts may use stop-arm cameras to record violations. Civil penalties under that program carry a $300 fine but do not add points or affect insurance rates. North Penn School District, for example, penalizes violators at $300.
Safety around schools
Officials also remind drivers to stay alert in school zones and near crosswalks. State law requires motorists to slow to 15 mph in posted school zones. A violation can result in a fine and three points on a driving record.
Students are also at risk while walking to and from school or waiting at bus stops. Drivers should remain cautious, watch for pedestrians and bicyclists, and always stop at marked crosswalks.
Free safety programs
TMA Bucks offers free programming on highway safety topics for schools and daycares. For more information or to schedule a program, contact Carly Wible at [email protected] or 267-895-5186.
