SCHOOL IS BACK IN SESSION: LET'S KEEP EVERYONE SAFE
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor
The excitement of a new school year is exhilarating! From meeting teachers and seeing old friends to new clothes and new routines, there's so much to enjoy. Amid all the excite-ment, it's important to remember one key safety priority: our children's safety on the road.
School buses are back on the streets, carrying our kids to and from school. Drivers are reminded by MnDOT and the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) that it is illegal to pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended. On two-lane roads or highways without a median, drivers must stop at least 20 feet away. Violations carry minimum fines of $500, and many buses are equipped with cameras to catch offenders.
Students also play a role in their own safety. They should follow the rules while waiting for the bus, riding on it, and crossing streets to get on or off. By staying alert and cautious, we can make sure this school year is a safe and happy one for everyone!
Driver Responsibilities
• Stop for flashing lights and stop arm: When a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, all vehicles must stop.
• Distance to stop: Drivers must stop at least 20 feet away from the bus.
• Road type determines stop requirements:
•Two-lane roads: All traffic in both directions must stop.
• Four-lane roads with a center median: Only traffic moving in the same direction as the bus must stop.
• Four-lane roads without a median: All traffic must stop.
Wait for the signal to go: Do not move until the stop arm is retracted and the red lights are no longer flashing.
Be alert: Be aware of children around school buses and avoid distracted driving.
Fines and enforcement: Violating the law carries a minimum $500 fine and can result in criminal charges if a child is injured. Many buses are equipped with cameras to catch violators.
Student Safety Tips
Before the bus:
• Be patient while waiting for the bus, stand back from the road, and avoid running or rowdy behavior.
On the bus:
• Stay seated, keep voices quiet to avoid distracting the driver, and never play with friends on the bus. Keep your head and arms inside the bus.
When getting off:
Look to be sure no cars are passing on the shoulder.
Crossing the road:
Wait for the driver's signal that it's safe. Make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the road.
Additional Resources
For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) website at https://tinyurl.com/y3t83a7u.