Stay Safe as School Buses Get Ready to Hit the Roads

(KNSI) – With the new school year approaching, it’s important for drivers and students to remember the essential rules of school bus safety.

Students return to area public schools on September 3rd. Tami Spanier, who owns Spanier Bus Service, told KNSI News something important to do and keep in mind on day one: “First and foremost, in the morning, is to be at your bus stop about five minutes before the scheduled pickup time. We always know that at the start of the school year, buses may run late, but we always want you out there five minutes before so you’re waiting for the bus, and the bus is not waiting for you.”

She also advises kids to stay seated and keep the noise level down so that they do not distract the driver.

Spanier reminds those heading to work or out and about to do their part, “Be cognizant that the school buses are there. That they’re going to be stopping when you see the yellow flashing lights come on. Don’t speed up to get through it; prepare to stop. The yellow means prepare to stop. The red means stay stopped until the stop arm and the lights go out.”

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety says on all undivided roads, drivers need to stay 20 feet back from a bus with its lights on. Running those lights will result in a $500 fine and a mandatory court appearance. Many buses have cameras to catch violators.

One way to avoid school buses is to adjust the schedule for leaving five minutes before or five minutes after one normally would just to steer clear.

For students, when getting off a bus, look to be sure no cars are passing on the shoulder. Wait for the bus driver to signal that it’s safe to cross. When crossing the street to get on the bus or to go home, make eye contact with motorists before proceeding across the street.

For more school bus safety tips, click here.

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