As the summer winds down and the school year approaches, it’s important for both parents and drivers to refocus on safety—especially when it comes to school busses. Knowing the laws for sharing the road can save you from big fines and potentially even bigger increases in your insurance premiums. Here’s a refresher on the key school bus rules of the road and safety tips for children to keep in mind this back-to-school season.
Sharing the Road With School Buses:
Drivers should always remember to do the following:
- When a school bus has its red lights flashing and the stop sign arm extended, vehicles on both sides of the road must stop. This is to ensure that children can safely cross the road, enter, or exit the bus.
- Stop at least 20 metres (or five car lengths) behind the bus.
- Comply with posted speed limits within school zones.
- When you approach a stopped school bus from the front, stop at a safe distance to allow children to get on or off the bus and cross the road. Do not move forward until the red lights have stopped flashing and stop arm is no longer activated or the bus begins to move.
Teaching Your Children About School Bus Safety:
Teaching your children about school bus safety is essential to ensure they stay alert and safe while traveling to and from school.
- Arrive Early: Children should arrive at their bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. This prevents rushing and reduces the chances of accidents happening.
- Stay Back from the Curb: Make sure children wait at least 10 feet away from the curb and only approach the bus once it has come to a complete stop.
- Look Left, Right, and Left Again: Before crossing the street to board the bus, remind your children to look both ways and wait for the bus driver to signal that it's safe to cross.
- Use Handrails and Take Your Time: Encourage your children to hold onto the handrails when getting on or off the bus and be mindful of where they step.
- Stay Seated: Once on the bus, kids should always remain seated and keep the aisle clear. Children should sit facing the driver with their feet in front of them.
- Cross the Road In Front of the Bus, Never Behind: Remind your children to look left and right checking for traffic, before exiting the bus. Children should walk, not run, away from the bus.
Understanding the Penalties
As per the Government of Ontario, if you drive past a stopped school bus with its overhead red lights flashing or its stop arm activated, you can face:
First Offence
- fines ranging from $400 to $2,000
- 6 demerit points
Each Following Offence
- fines ranging from $1,000 to $4,000
- 6 demerit points
- possible jail time of up to 6 months
Stop Arm Cameras on School Buses
The registered owner of a vehicle illegally passing a school bus that is caught by camera technology may be charged and fined.
Reporting Drivers Who Don’t Stop
You can report a vehicle that doesn't stop properly for a school bus by filing a local Road Watch Report or contacting your local police department.
As back-to-school season begins, it’s critical to prioritize safety on the roads and in school zones, as well as teaching your children about school bus safety. By following these tips and being aware of school bus laws, we can all contribute to a safer community for our children.
If you have any questions about your insurance coverage during the school year, or want to ensure your family is fully protected, please contact us. We're here to help you navigate life’s transitions with peace of mind.
Talk to your Ayr Farmers Mutual Insurance Agent or Broker today about your auto insurance coverage, or request a free, no obligation quote on auto insurance.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your Insurance Broker or Insurance Company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a Licensed Insurance Agent or Insurance Broker for personalized advice and guidance.