MIDDLETOWN – Each school day, an estimated 50,000 motorists in New York illegally pass stopped school buses endangering students and putting their lives at risk. On Thursday, law enforcement agencies around the state will undertake a special enforcement effort, known as Operation Safe Stop Day, and ticket drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses.
“The safety of our students is always our highest priority and we are excited to partner with local authorities today on Safe Stop Day, which reminds community members about the importance of bus safety on a shared road,” said Dan Higbie, general manager of Mid-City Transit. Mid-City transports students in the Middletown Enlarged City School District.
State Vehicle and Traffic law requires all vehicles to come to a full stop when approaching a school bus stopped with red lights flashing. Those lights indicate that a child is either boarding or disembarking a school bus. State law also prohibits the passing of a school bus that is stopped with red lights flashing regardless of direction of travel, or even on a multi-lane or divided highway.
“We participate in the Safe Stop Day every year and I think it is something important to highlight,” Middletown Police Chief John Ewanciw said. “It is obvious that drivers should pay attention while driving, especially around school buses. Keeping children safe when they take the school bus is a top priority and we always remain vigilant about keeping them safe.”
Penalties for a first-time offense of illegally passing a school bus include a fine from $250 to $400, five points on your license and the possibility of 30 days in jail. A second conviction within three years will result in a $600 to $750 fine and up to 180 days in jail; while three or more convictions will result in a fine from $750 to $1,000, mandatory revocation of your driver’s license and up to 180 days in jail.
Some buses are equipped with automated stop arm cameras and fines can be levied on the owner of any vehicle that illegally passes a stopped school bus beginning at $250 for a first violation and up to $300 for subsequent violations.
“This event encourages the community to play an active role in ensuring the safety of students. If school bus safety laws are followed properly, especially when the stop arm is down, red lights are flashing, and students are boarding or disembarking from the school bus, we can work together to ensure students are safely transported to and from area schools,” concluded Higbie.
