WHEN DO YOU NEED TO STOP FOR A SCHOOL BUS?

WHEN DO YOU NEED TO STOP FOR A SCHOOL BUS? –

With students returning to in-person classroom learning this fall, it is time to review the rules of the road regarding school bus law in Washington State.  

Many studies have shown that drivers fail to properly stop for school buses when they are loading and unloading.  This creates a very dangerous situation for the students.

The two main things to look for with a school bus are the red paddle that is displayed next to the driver’s side mirror and the flashing red lights in the front and back of the bus.  These both are indicators that traffic should stop and stay at least 20 feet away from either side of the bus.  

IF ON A TWO-LANE ROAD THEN ALL TRAFFIC MUST STOP FOR THE SCHOOL BUS.   Only if on a roadway with three or more lanes can the traffic going in the opposite direction of the bus continue, but with caution.  ALL TRAFFIC BEHIND THE BUS MUST ALWAYS STOP when the bus is signaling with the paddle and flashing red lights.   

Yellow flashing lights are an indicator that the bus is stopping and will likely be turning on its red flashing lights shortly.  

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