Drivers should always exercise caution when around school buses, but two new laws may help re-enforce safe driving around them.
When buses activate their flashing red lights and their stop sign extends from the side, other motorists heading both ways on the road are to stop and wait. Previously, drivers who did not stop could only be issued tickets when the failure to stop was witnessed in person by law enforcement in person, or the driver had to record the plate number and complete a lengthy form.
Now, schools can attach cameras to buses that record license plate information whenever a driver passes illegally. Police can use those images to issue a citation to the vehicle owner for up to $500.
The second law prohibits anyone from entering a school bus without permission of the driver. Violations of the school bus trespassing law are punishable by up to a $500 fine.
Leave a Reply