Batesville, In. — As investigators continue to probe the deadly school bus accident in northern Indiana the state police want to refresh motorists about school bus rules.
School bus drivers will activate the buses flashing amber/yellow lights when preparing to stop to load and/or unload children. When motorists see the flashing amber/yellow lights they should slow down and prepare to stop. Once the school bus stops and the RED flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, motorists are required to stop and not pass the school bus. Many motorists are confused when they are required to stop.
Two-Lane Roadways, which include most state highways, county roads and most city streets
If a school bus stops on a two lane road and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, all motorists MUST stop.
Multi-Lane Roadways with NO Barrier between Lanes
When a school bus stops on a multi-lane roadway without a barrier and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, all motorists MUST stop.
Multi-Lane Roadway with a Grassy and or Concrete Barrier
When a school bus stops and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, only vehicles behind the bus MUST stop. Vehicles that are approaching from the opposite side are NOT required to stop.
Each year in the United States, children are injured and killed walking to and from school and while loading and or unloading from a school bus. School buses remain the safest means of transportation for our precious cargo, but we need every motorist to do their part and keep a watchful eye for children and to stop for school buses when required by law.
A person who disregards a school bus stop arm commits a Class A Infraction and could receive a maximum fine of $10,000.
