Good morning, Northport. As a new school year begins, we'd like to take the time to remind you to use caution on the roads, especially near school buildings.
Here are some safety notes and tips:
- Most school bus-related deaths and injuries occur while children are crossing the street after leaving the bus.
When a stopped school bus flashes its red light(s), traffic approaching from either direction, even in front of the school and in school parking lots, must stop before reaching the bus. One should stop at least 20 feet (6 m) away from the bus.
Before a school bus stops to load or unload passengers, the driver will usually flash yellow warning lights. Be prepared to slow down and stop.
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Once stopped for a school bus, one may not drive again until the red lights stop flashing or when the bus driver or a traffic officer waves you on. This law applies on all roadways in New York State. Drivers must stop for a school bus even if it is on the opposite side of a divided highway.
After stopping for a school bus, watch for children along the side of the road. Drive slowly until you have passed them.
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The fine for passing a stopped school bus ranges from a minimum of $250 for a first violation to a maximum of $1,000 for three violations in three years. In addition, if you are convicted of three such violations in three years, your license will be revoked for a minimum of six months.
At crosswalks, when there is no traffic control signal, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, particularly if a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, or there is potential danger to the pedestrian.
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