How to Behave Around School Buses in NY

 

Information from the DMV of NY

 School Buses Are Unlike Other Vehicles 

School buses have bigger blind spots, take longer to stop, and need more room to maneuver than a standard vehicle. Buses should be treated differently than you would treat an average-sized vehicle. It is important for drivers to know how to react to a school bus in operation. 

When you encounter a school bus:

  • Slow down. School buses make frequent stops, so be patient and drive at a reasonable speed. Remember, in addition to picking up and dropping off students, school buses are required by law to stop at railroad crossings.
  • Be alert. Always be aware of children and parents that may be waiting at a school bus stop or perhaps running to catch the bus before it departs.
  • Come to a complete stop at least 20 feet away from the bus.
  • Be extra careful to look around before moving your vehicle, as children may be walking in front of, behind, or on the side of school buses. Check for pedestrians - especially near schools, bus stops, playgrounds, parks, and behind parked cars.

Right of Way 

When a school bus stops and flashes its red lights, traffic approaching from either direction must stop before reaching the bus: 

  • on a two-lane road
  • on multi-lane highways
  • on divided highways

Share the Road 

  • Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Slow down and prepare to stop your vehicle.
  • Red flashing lights mean the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. Stop your vehicle and wait until the school bus resumes motion or until signaled by the driver or police officer to proceed.

Show All Answers

1. Violation Contact Information
2. How will School Districts in Suffolk County Benefit from the Safety Program?
3. Participating School Districts
4. Who Are Stop-Arm Violation Tickets Issued to, and How Much Will They Cost Violators?
5. How Does It Work?  
6. How Can I Learn More?
7. Safety Tips for Children, Student Riders, and Parents
8. How to Behave Around School Buses in NY