As students in 10 Northeast Florida counties head back to school on Monday, that means buses will be rolling out in the morning and afternoon again -- and it’s time for an important reminder for drivers.
Drivers must remember that they are required to stop when approaching a school bus that has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended.
The only exception is on a divided highway with a raised divider, like a concrete median or guardrail, or at least 5 feet of unpaved space separating the lanes of traffic.
In this case, cars behind the bus must stop. Cars in the lanes on the opposite side of the median can keep driving but should slow down.
When it comes to a two-lane street, all drivers moving in either direction must stop and remain stopped until the road is clear of children and the school bus retracts its stop arm.
If a bus stops on a multi-lane road without a median, drivers on both sides must stop.
This is typically when drivers break the law the most. It’s important to remember, passing a stopped bus is illegal, and you can be fined for it and possibly have your license suspended.
A few years ago, the state doubled the penalties for drivers who fail to stop for a school bus and pass a stopped school bus on the side where children enter and exit.
Penalties for passing a stopped school bus include:
- Moving violation subject to citation
- Requirement to complete a basic Driver Improvement Course upon conviction
- Four points on your driver license
- Minimum fine of $265; if you pass on the side where children enter and exit, you will receive a minimum fine of $465.
It’s also important to remember that it’s now the law to be hands-free and put down your phone no matter where you’re driving -- but it’s particularly important in school zones!
Other reminders from FDOT
School Zones and Speed Limits: Be aware of reduced speed limits in school zones. Observe the speed limits and slow down to ensure the safety of children crossing the streets. Keep in mind, in Florida, it is prohibited to use a handheld mobile device while driving.
Crosswalk Safety: Parents can encourage children to use designated crosswalks when crossing the road. Drivers in Florida must stop for any pedestrian in a designated crosswalk. Pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk. Additionally, if students are biking, they should dismount their bicycles and walk their bicycles at a designated crosswalk.
Bicycle Safety: If your student rides a bicycle to school, ensure they wear a properly fitted helmet and obey traffic rules. Encourage them to use bike lanes or designated paths where available. As the days get shorter, it is a good practice to have your student use appropriate lighting. A white light should be at the front of the bicycle, and a red light should be at the rear.
Distraction-Free Driving: For all roadway users, it is important to eliminate distractions when you are operating a vehicle. Fewer distractions inside the vehicle means you can be prepared for traffic shifts, unexpected motorist behavior and adherence to the speed limit.
Be Patient: Expect increased traffic around schools during drop-off and pick-up times. Plan ahead and allow extra time on the roadway so you are not rushing or becoming frustrated on the road. Make a plan to drive safe and consider using the FL 511 smartphone application to receive push alerts regarding traffic impacts. This is a free service from FDOT that includes construction information, police activity on the roadway and other traffic slowdowns to equip motorists with information to improve their commute.
