SCHOOL BUSES
When a stopped school bus flashes its red light(s), traffic approaching from
either direction, even in front of the school and in school parking lots,
must stop before reaching the bus. You should stop at least 20 feet (6 m)
away from the bus. You can identify this bus by a "SCHOOL BUS" sign, the red
lights on top, and its unique yellow/orange color.
Before a school bus stops to load or unload passengers, the driver will
usually flash yellow warning lights. When you see them, slow down and be
prepared to stop.
Once stopped for a school bus, you may not drive again until the red lights
stop flashing or when the bus driver or a traffic officer waves you on. This
law applies on all roadways in New York State. You must stop for a school
bus even if it is on the opposite side of a divided highway.
After stopping for a school bus, watch for children along the side of the
road. Drive slowly until you have passed them.
Safety Tip: Most school bus-related deaths and injuries occur while children
are crossing the street after leaving the bus, not in collisions involving
school buses.
Keep in mind that vehicles transporting disabled persons may be equipped as
school buses, and you must stop for them just as you would for other school
buses.
The fine for passing a stopped school bus ranges from a minimum of $250 for
a first violation to a maximum of $1,000 for three violations in three years
. In addition, if you are convicted of three such violations in three years,
your license will be revoked for a minimum of six months.
