Author: Meredith Hemphill
It’s that time of year again. Every place of business seems to be having a back-to-school sale, and the yellow buses are back on the roads. Do your part to keep children safe on their way to and from school by knowing school bus traffic laws.
Tips for Drivers
• Plan ahead for potential delays between the hours of 6 - 9 am and 2 - 4 pm.
• Reduce speeds when approaching school zones.
• Avoid driving distracted.
• Be mindful of school bus stops along chosen routes.
• Stay alert in and around school zones for pedestrians and crossing guards.
• NEVER pass a stopped school bus.
According to state law, approaching motorists are required to stop when a school bus is displaying its mechanical stop signal or flashing red lights and the bus is stopped for the purpose of receiving or discharging passengers. However, there may be times when it isn’t immediately clear if you need to stop, so keep these rules in mind.
• Two-lane roadway – All traffic from both directions must stop.
• Two-lane with a center turning lane – All traffic from both directions must stop.
• Four-lane roadway – All traffic from both directions must stop.
• Four-lane roadway with a median – Only traffic following the bus must stop.
• Four or more lanes with a center turning lane – Only traffic following the bus must stop.
Tips for Students
• If you have to walk on roads where there is no sidewalk, walk against traffic and out of the road.
• Stand at least 10 feet from the road when waiting for the bus.
• Always check that traffic has stopped and the way is clear before crossing the street to board or before getting off the bus.
• Wait for the bus to stop before you get on or off. Use the handrail when you get off the bus.
• NEVER run to catch the bus.
• If you drop something under or near the bus, DON'T pick it up until you tell the bus driver.
Children Home Alone
Some children may spend their after-school hours at home without adult supervision. If your child must be home alone, be sure they are prepared for emergencies and household rules are clear. Parents and guardians can take the following steps to protect children who are home alone.
• Secure poisons, alcohol, firearms or any other items that could pose a threat to children.
• Go over fire escape plans and other procedures for emergencies.
• Make sure children know how and when to call 9-1-1.
• Make sure children know their address and phone number.
• Have a list of phone numbers including how to contact the parent/guardian, doctor, other relatives and trusted individuals.
• Have a first-aid kit available and make sure children know how to use it.
• Teach children to never to open the door to a stranger or let anyone unfamiliar to them know (either on the phone or at the door) that they are without adult supervision.
More resources:
• Children Staying Home Alone
• School Bus Safety Tips
• NC School Bus Safety Web