School is back in session and motorists are reminded to keep an eye out for children walking to school and be prepared to stop when approaching a school bus that is picking up or dropping off students.
School buses display yellow warning lights that signify the bus is about to stop. Once a bus comes to a stop, flashing red lights and a stop sign are displayed.
On roads with less than four lanes, drivers going in both directions must stop whenever a school bus’s stop arm is extended, and the lights are flashing. They must remain stopped until the bus is in motion again or until the bus driver signals that traffic can continue.
On roads with four or more lanes, only traffic moving in the same direction as the bus must stop when the school bus releases passengers. Traffic coming from the opposite direction is not required to stop.
Mentor school buses are equipped with cameras. If you pass a stopped bus, you will see your day in court. Offenders can face up to $500 in fines as well as license suspension.
Do your part to help keep Mentor students safe. Remember, traffic safety starts with you.