Back to School: Your Essential Guide to School Bus Safety
The school bells are ringing again, and with a new school year comes new excitement. But it also means our roads will be busier with students heading to and from school. Whether you’re a parent, a daily commuter, or just driving through a neighborhood, it’s a great time to refresh our memories on how to drive safely, especially when it comes to school buses.
Let’s make this back-to-school season a safe one for everyone!
The Big One: Understanding School Bus Stop Laws
First and foremost: when a school bus has its red lights flashing and its stop sign extended, you must stop. This is a non-negotiable law designed to protect children as they board or exit the bus.
- When to Stop: You must stop whether you are behind the bus, in front of the bus, or on the opposite side of a divided road without a physical barrier (like a grassy median or concrete divider). The only time you don’t have to stop is if you are on the opposite side of a divided highway with a physical barrier.
- What Happens if You Don’t? In Texas, illegally passing a stopped school bus can result in severe consequences, including fines of up to $1,250, license suspension, and even imprisonment. The cost is high because the risk is even higher.
General Driving Safety in School Zones
It’s not just about the bus. School zones are filled with excited, and sometimes unpredictable, children. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Slow Down and Stay Alert: Reduce your speed in school zones and residential neighborhoods. Keep an eye out for kids playing, walking, or biking.
- Beware of the “Roll-Through”: Never roll through a stop sign, even if you don’t see anyone. Studies show more than a third of drivers do this in school zones, and it’s an easy way to cause an accident.
- Watch for Crosswalks: Always be prepared to stop for students using crosswalks. Some children may dart into the street without looking, so your full attention is needed.
- Reverse with Caution: When backing out of a driveway or parking spot, take an extra moment to look for pedestrians, particularly small children who may be difficult to see.
- Give Bicyclists Room: Share the road with students on bicycles. Give them plenty of space and pass only when it’s safe to do so.
Stay Focused: Avoid Distractions
One should always pay attention when operating a motor vehicle, but it is especially imperative in school zones. Using a handheld device while driving is not only illegal in Texas, but it also doubles your chances of being in a crash. Put your phone away and focus on the road—it’s the best way to keep everyone safe.
A Note to Parents and Kids
Parents, please remind your children of the rules. Encourage them to wait for the bus on the sidewalk, to cross the street in front of the bus, and to look both ways before crossing the street.
Conclusion: Our Shared Responsibility
School safety is a community effort. By being mindful of these simple rules, we can all help contribute to a safer and happier back-to-school season. Let’s all do our part to protect the most important members of our community—our students!
