Some of the Major Texas School Bus Laws You Need To Know

·It is illegal (in all 50 states, actually) to pass a school bus actively loading or unloading passengers. Passing on either side of the school bus can lead to a fine anywhere from $500 to $1250 or more in Texas.

·Texas law mandates drivers must stop when a school bus extends its stop sign or turns on its flashing red lights.

·When a school bus is stopped, drivers traveling on either side of the road must come to a complete stop.

·If the roadway is separated by a physical barrier (like a raised median for example) drivers do not have to stop for the school bus.

·A roadway is not considered separated by left turn lanes only, so drivers must stop for school buses in that case.

·Drivers can only pass a school bus if the flashing lights are no longer activated, or if it has resumed driving.

·Drivers must always obey speed zones with flashing school zone lights and/or signs. If not, they could face at least $200 in fines.

Other tips include:

• Give students extra room and don’t assume they are paying attention to traffic. Students are frequently distracted by mobile devices or listening on electronic devices and may not be paying attention to their surroundings.
• Watch for children on bicycles traveling to and from schools.
• Reduce speed when you spot a school bus and know children may unexpectedly step into the road without checking for oncoming traffic.

(DPS)