SOUTHERN TIER (WBNG) — As students head back to school, New York State Police are reminding drivers to remain patient and stop for school buses.
Motorists must stop for buses with flashing red lights and extended stop signs, no matter if they are traveling in the same or opposite direction.
This safety rule applies on all roadways, including multi-lane and divided highways where drivers might mistakenly think they can pass.
“Prepare for there being more kids out on the roads, out on the sidewalks,” said Aga Tinker, trooper of NY State Police Troop C. “You might have kids that are walking to school. Some will be walking alone or with their parents. You might have bicyclists out. But you’re also going to have kids getting on and off a school bus.”
Last year, troopers in Troop C issued 18 tickets to motorists who made unsafe driving decisions around school buses across their seven-county coverage area.
The importance of this law was highlighted in May after a dangerous close call in Madison County gained national media attention.
Law enforcement officials also urge commuters to show extra patience and give plenty of space to younger drivers returning to the roads.
“The biggest thing is to pay attention. For kids, same thing as adults: stay off your devices while you’re trying to get on the bus or get to school,” Tinker said. “Pay attention to what’s going around you. Look both ways before crossing the street and listen to your school bus driver.”
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