School Bus Safety

Throughout the United States, over 25 million children ride school buses every day. Believe it or not, school buses are actually one of the safest vehicles on the road. Out of all traffic fatalities, less than 1% involve children on school transportation vehicles. Where children face the most risk, is getting on and off the school bus. Two-thirds of school bus loading and unloading fatalities are caused by vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses.

When you see a school bus slowing down or stopping, you must increase your awareness from more than just the school bus, but the surrounding area as well. Never attempt to pass a school bus. Many children often cross the street when boarding or exiting the bus. No matter what state you live in, it is illegal to pass a school bus while the red lights are flashing and the stop-arm is extended.

 Across the country, school bus drivers reported over 50,000 vehicles passed their stopped buses in a single day. To help improve safety for school bus drivers and children, many states have enacted additional laws and regulations that increase penalties for drivers who violate school bus safety.

What School Bus Lights Mean

Yellow flashing lights -> The bus is preparing to stop for children to get on or off. Begin to slow down and stop your vehicle.

Red flashing lights ->  The bus is stopped and children are getting on or off. You must stop your car and wait until the red lights stop flashing and the stop-arm is no longer extended. Once the bus begins moving, you can start driving again.

National School Bus Safety Week starts on October 17th, 2022.