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Being an observant driver is the goal for many drivers, but it doesn’t always seem to work out that way. Many drivers may know what to do when asked what to do if they see a stopped school bus with their red lights flashing, but many drivers fail to do anything about it. It’s almost
as if they don’t see the buses. The following are key reminders for school bus safety.
In Ontario, the stopping distance from a stopped school bus when its lights are flashing and the stop arm is out will vary depending on whether you are approaching from the front of the bus or behind it. When you are approaching from behind the bus, you should stop 20 metres from the rear of the bus, which will allow the bus driver to see you in their mirrors.
The driver of the bus will turn on yellow flashing lights to let you they will be stopping. Early notice like that should be enough to allow any driver to stop in time.
If you’re approaching the bus from the opposite direction, you should stop at a safe enough distance that will allow the kids to exit the bus and safely cross the street. Avoid stopping so close the kids become reluctant to cross in front of your vehicle. The only time you would not have to stop when approaching a stopped school bus from the opposite direction is if there is a concrete boulevard or grass median down the middle of the road.
To ensure you always see the bus, keep looking well ahead while driving and from building to building to help you spot the buses. This is especially true while driving before school time and immediately after school lets out for the day. Expect the buses will stop so that you’re prepared to stop when needed. Always be aware of what’s happening behind you to know if you can make a safe stop if the bus does.
If you’re driving during these times, it would be wise to leave a little early so if you do need to stop for a school bus, you won’t feel tempted to keep going because you’ll be late. Failing to stop for a stopped school bus carries a hefty fine along with six demerit points. Those points will really hike up your insurance premiums.
It’s bad enough if you accumulate any fines and demerit points for passing a stopped school bus with their lights flashing and stop arm, but the thought of hitting a child as they walked out from in front of the bus should send shivers own your spine.