It has recently been brought to my attention that it would be helpful to review safety information and laws for motorists who are around school buses. The following is from the AAPS Transportation website. Please take a moment to read this over to make sure you know
TIPS FOR ALL MOTORISTS
- Slow down and obey all traffic laws and speed limits.
- Red overhead flashing lights, possibly accompanied by an extended stop arm tell you the school bus is stopped to load or unload children.State law requires you to stop at least 20 feet from the front or rear of the school bus when red lights are flashing and not proceed until such school bus resumes motion, or until signaled by the school bus driver to proceed.
- Be alert and ready to stop. Prepare to stop for a school bus when overhead yellow lights are flashing.Drive with caution if you see the yellow hazard warning lights are flashing on a moving or stopped bus. Watch for children walking in the street, especially where there are no sidewalks. Watch for children playing and gathering near bus stops. Watch for children arriving late for the bus, who may dart into the street without looking for traffic. When backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, watch for children walking or biking to school.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
- Help your children learn and practice the safety rules for walking, bicycling, or riding in a passenger car, school bus or transit bus. Be a good role model, especially when you are with your kids. Always buckle up in the car, always wear a helmet when biking, and always follow pedestrian safety rules.
- Supervise young children walking or biking to school or as they wait at the school bus stop.
If you have questions, please ask. We'll do our very best to answer your questions.
Sincerely,
Kevin
