September is waning, and school is in full swing. And if you’re like many other North Texas drivers, you’ve already been caught in a tricky situation involving a school bus. Can I pass the bus? How do I know if I am supposed to stop? It can be tricky to know the laws and avoid fines – and accidents.
According to the American School Bus Council (americanschoolbuscouncil.org), school buses are designed to be safer than passenger vehicles in avoiding crashes and preventing injury. Today, as compared to years ago, school buses are built with safety in mind. In fact, a study by the U.S. Department of Transportation states that children are safer riding the bus to and from school than being driven in a car by an adult. But in order to keep children on school buses as safe as possible, drivers must be aware of school bus safety. When you are sharing the road with school buses, follow these tips.
Yellow and Red Flashing Lights – School buses have yellow lights to warn drivers they will be making a stop and red flashing lights and an extendable stop sign to tell drivers to stop. Yellow does not mean go faster, it means slow down. Be aware of your surroundings and always come to a complete stop. Do not continue driving until the lights have turned off, the bus driver gives a signal or the bus begins moving again.
Passing a School Bus – It is illegal to pass a school bus on the right side of the road because you cannot be aware of where the bus needs to stop to load or unload. Always wait for the bus to move to the right lane or stay a safe distance behind it. Additionally, it is illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. It is vital that you stop your vehicle at least 10 feet away from the school bus to allow for riders to enter and exit safely.
Railroad Crossings – In Texas it is required that school buses stop at all railway crossings. Be alert when a crossing is ahead; if the driver turns on the alternating red lights at the top of the bus, you are required to stop also. If the driver only turns on the hazard lights (this is more common), you are not legally required to stop, but you should be aware of the slowing school bus.
Divided Highways – You must always stop for flashing red lights; however, Texas law does not require drivers to stop when on the opposite side of any roadway that is divided by a median or other physical barrier (turn lanes don’t count). Use extreme caution if you are in this situation as passengers may be trying to cross in that area, especially if there is a crosswalk.
Buses Need Turning Space – Just like trucks, buses have a wide turning radius. Remember to provide them with ample turning space so they can maneuver easily on the road.
Watch for Children Waiting for the Bus – As the driver, you are responsible for keeping an eye on the road and on children waiting for the bus. Come to a complete stop at all stop lights and stop signs, drive slowly near bus stops and watch for children crossing the road.
Slow Down – Use caution if you are driving in residential areas and school zones. Fines for speeding in an area can be hefty.
Allow for Extra Time During Your Commute – School bus drivers have to follow the same speed limit rules as every other driver; however, they make frequent stops which can delay traffic. Know the bus routes in your community and allow ample travel time when school is in session.
For more information, visit the Texas Department of Public Safety or view the transportation code here.
David Silvey is a father and a vice president at AlliedBarton Security Services, the industry’s premier provider of highly trained security personnel.
