The New York State Department of Transportation posted a reminder on Facebook to motorists about the law when a school bus is stopped to pick up students.
“When a school bus is stopped with its lights flashing, all motorists must also stop,” the post says. “It doesn't matter what lane you're in or what direction you're heading, all vehicles must stop.”
Image: NYSDOT Facebook page.
A graphic accompanying the post shows motorists stopped on either side of a six lane road indicating that no matter if there is a double yellow line separating your lane from the school bus with flashing lights you must stop.
New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has additional safety information:
Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Slow down and prepare to stop your vehicle.
Red flashing lights mean the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. Stop your vehicle and wait until the school bus resumes motion or until signaled by the driver or police officer to proceed.
Fatal crashes involving students who were struck by passing motorists typically involved one or more of the following factors:
- Motorists attempted to pass the bus, claiming they did not have time to wait.
- Motorists claimed they couldn’t see the flashing lights because the lights were dirty or because sun, rain, snow, or fog blinded them.
- The bus driver waved the car through the red flashing lights, unaware a child was crossing the road at that time. Even if the bus driver waves you ahead, you should still remain vigilant and keep to slower speeds.
- The motorist, demonstrating disregard for the law and/or children’s safety, did not stop for the flashing red lights.
As school starts up again, we encourage you to be aware of children and the rules of the road! Drive safe.
