If a school bus is stopped to unload passengers with its lights flashing and its stop sign extended, you must stop and wait until all the passengers are safely on the sidewalk, the lights are turned off, and the stop sign is withdrawn.
Following a school bus can be frustrating—but it’s important to pay attention when you are driving near one and come to a complete stop if it is unloading passengers. Depending on which state you’re in, there are different laws about when and where you are allowed to pass a school bus.
Here, the car insurance
app Jerry
is breaking down the do’s and don’ts when it comes to passing a stopped school bus. DO keep an eye on the school bus ahead of you and drive with caution
If you are behind a stopped school bus and wish to pass it, notice if its lights are flashing or if the stop signs on the side or back are extended.
You may not pass a bus that is unloading passengers. Wait until the passengers are safely off the bus and the school bus turns off its lights and retracts its stop signs.
There are some instances where you can pass a school bus:
If the bus is parked directly adjacent to a school or is in a school parking lot, you are allowed in most states to pass the bus with caution
When a school bus is driving down a roadway, you are allowed to pass it as you would any other vehicle
Key Takeaway You are not allowed to pass a school bus that is unloading passengers, has its lights flashing, and/or has its stop signs extended.
DON’T pass a school bus that has its lights on and stop signs extended
When a school bus ahead of you stops to unload its passengers, you must also come to a complete stop. The bus driver will indicate that the bus is unloading by extending the stop signs and turning on the flashing lights.
If you are approaching on the other side of an undivided road, most states require you to stop as well.
Passing an unloading school bus is illegal and comes with serious consequences. Penalties include hefty fines, demerit points, and even license suspension or jail time.
MORE: How do I get my suspended license reinstated?
DO familiarize yourself with the laws in your state
The specific laws and penalties for passing a stopped school bus vary from state to state. Fines for passing a stopped school bus vary from a couple hundred dollars to over a thousand bucks. Make sure you look up the laws for where you live.
In some states, you don’t have to stop for a school bus if you’re driving on the other side of a road divided by a raised concrete barrier. Still, always be aware of people crossing the road if you see a bus with its lights flashing and stop signs extended.
Key Takeaway Pay extra attention when you are following or approaching a school bus. Always be aware of where passengers are unloading and crossing the road.
DON’T forget that these laws exist to protect children and other passengers
If you’re stuck behind a school bus that’s unloading, be patient. Remember that these laws exist to protect the children or other passengers who are getting off the bus.
Stay aware at all times when you are driving near or stopped by a school bus. When a stopped bus retracts its stop signs and turns off its flashing lights, make sure that all of the passengers are safely on the sidewalk before you continue driving.
By following your state’s passing laws, you protect yourself and your driving record as well.
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