Safe driving reminders for back to school time
Posted August 30, 2018
Students across the country from kindergarten to high school are returning to class this month, meaning thousands of school buses on the road every day and millions of children along roads waiting for them.
School bus laws vary from state to state in terms of what’s illegal or legal about how drivers must react to bus pickups. If you are unsure of the rules in the states your commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) operate, be sure to visit those states’ Department of Motor Vehicles websites to learn more.
Simple strategies
The easiest way to react to a school bus making stops is to err on the side of caution. Following these three safety rules will go a long way in helping avoid fines while making the roads safer for Billy and Betsy to get to class:
- Stop driving in either direction when a school bus flashes its red lights and extends its stop sign.
- Proceed with caution or stop entirely when a bus flashes yellow lights, indicating it’s about to stop to unload or pick up children.
- Wait until you clearly see children on sidewalks before accelerating away from the scene.
School-zone suggestions
When operating in school zones, it is essential that drivers stay extra vigilant for children who may bolt into the street unexpectedly, especially at the start and end of the school day. Be sure to obey speed limit signs and give yourself plenty of time to stop your CMV at intersections.
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