With schools reopening across New York, the New York Association for Pupil Transportation is urging motorists to slow down and stop whenever they encounter a school bus with its red warning lights flashing.
The association said illegal passing of school buses remains a significant safety concern, citing reports from school bus operators across the state who say motorists frequently disregard flashing red lights while children are boarding or leaving buses.
A recent survey by the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services estimated that about 213,800 illegal school-bus passings occur each school day nationwide, potentially putting students at risk.
Under New York law, drivers must come to a complete stop when approaching a school bus stopped with its red lights flashing. The requirement applies in both directions of travel, including on multi-lane and divided highways.
A first conviction carries a fine of $250 to $400, five points on a driver’s license and the possibility of up to 30 days in jail. A second conviction within three years carries a fine of $600 to $750 and up to 180 days in jail. Three or more convictions can result in a $750 to $1,000 fine, mandatory license revocation and up to 180 days in jail.
Many New York school buses also are equipped with stop-arm camera systems that record vehicles passing while the bus is stopped. The registered owner of a vehicle captured by such a system can face a $250 to $300 civil penalty.
The New York Association for Pupil Transportation represents school transportation professionals responsible for transporting more than 2.3 million students across the state.
