COLUMBUS –The week of October 16 through
October 20, 2017, has been designated National School Bus Safety Week. This
year’s theme, “Stop on Red,” reminds motorists and students about the dangers
that exist outside of school buses. Troopers will increase visibility on school
bus routes and school related safety zones by following or riding on school
buses to identify violations.
Motorists approaching a stopped school bus
from either direction are required to stop at least 10 feet from the bus while
the bus is receiving or discharging students. Bus drivers will activate yellow
warning lights prior to the stop to warn traffic, and will display red flashing
lights and a stop sign while the bus is stopped. Motorists should be especially
vigilant around any stopped school bus – with or without flashing lights. Where
a road divided into four or more lanes, only traffic driving in the same
direction as the bus must stop.
Students need to cross where the school
bus driver can see them, wait for the drivers signal to cross and watch for
traffic. The greatest risk to children is when they are outside the school bus.
Student injuries and fatalities can occur when motorists attempt to pass a
stopped school bus.
“School buses remain the safest mode of
transportation for students to and from school,” said Colonel Paul A. Pride,
Patrol superintendent. “With the cooperation of motorists, parents, and
children and public awareness we can make this a safe school year throughout
Ohio.”
From 2014 to 2016, 4,160 drivers were
convicted of failing to stop for a stopped school bus and 3,958 traffic crashes
were reported involving school buses. The Patrol reminds motorists to use
caution when driving around school buses or in school zones. Motorists should
also be prepared to stop quickly and remain aware of their surroundings.
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