Back-to-School Reminder: Stop for School Buses or Pay the Price

Back-to-school season means more children are walking to bus stops, crossing streets, and boarding buses. Many of these children are young and may not always be aware of traffic dangers.

While it might be tempting to speed up when you see that yellow bus ahead, failing to stop for a school bus isn’t just dangerous–it’s illegal.

As drivers, it’s our responsibility to be extra alert during these months when bus activity is at its peak. Knowing the rules and practicing safe driving can save lives and help you avoid steep penalties.

Oklahoma School Bus Stop Laws

In Oklahoma, you must stop for a school bus that has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, no matter which direction you’re traveling. The only exception is if you’re on a divided highway with a physical barrier.

Passing a stopped school bus in violation of the law can result in hefty fines/court costs, points on your driving record, increased insurance rates, possible driver’s license suspension, and, if injury is involved, increased costs and criminal charges.

Beyond the legal consequences, the moral cost is immeasurable. In 2023, there were 128 school bus-related fatalities across the United States. In Oklahoma specifically, Oklahoma school bus drivers observed over 400 vehicles illegally passing a stopped school bus. A split-second decision to pass could result in serious injury or death to a child.

How to Drive Safely Around School Buses

• Recognize the Signals: Yellow flashing lights mean slow down–red lights and an extended stop arm mean to stop completely, regardless of direction (unless you’re on a divided highway with a median).
• Stay Alert: Children are unpredictable; watch for them at bus stops and around crosswalks.
• Keep Your Distance: Following too closely leaves no time to react if a bus stops suddenly.
• Be Patient: Those extra few seconds could save a life and avoid a costly ticket.
• Obey the Law: Enforcement is increasing, and many states (including Oklahoma) now use cameras to catch violators.

 

With the number of school bus-related accidents rising and countless violations happening daily, it’s more important than ever to drive cautiously and follow the law.

A simple act–stopping for a school bus–can be the difference between a safe school commute and a tragic outcome. As drivers, we all share the responsibility to protect children on their way to and from school.

By staying alert, following the law, and showing patience, we can keep our roads safe and avoid the severe penalties that come with passing a stopped school bus.

About OK Traffic Ticket Defense

OK Traffic Ticket Defense is a local law firm dedicated to helping drivers fight Oklahoma traffic citations, protect their driving records, and avoid costly fines. Our experienced team knows the law, the courts, and the strategies that get results.

We work to minimize the impact on your driver’s license, your insurance, and your life. Contact OK Traffic Ticket Defense today for a free consultation and put an experienced advocate in your corner.