Here’s Why Motorists Should Obey School Bus Rules
And why you should think twice before speeding around a stopped school bus.
Aside from wanting to keep children safe who travel by bus, there are various reasons as to why you should be obeying school bus rules, including stopping for buses that have their stop sign extenders out. Did you know that in the state of Mississippi, if you illegally pass a school bus that, in the process, results in injury or death and are convicted of the crime, you could face a felony assault charge and a prison sentence of up to 20 years? The fact is, these buses are transporting children of all ages and it is your duty to reduce the risk for these kids, not increase it.
Some other things you may not be aware of is that some school buses come equipped with cameras located on the school bus stop arms that are used to film perpetrators in the act. So, just because you think you may have gotten away with it, the act may have been caught on camera and you could potentially be charged for breaking the law.
Recap of Mississippi School Bus Laws
As a motorist in Jackson or any other city in MS, it is your job to be aware of the roadway rules you are expected to follow. If by chance you forgot what the laws are that apply to school buses, we have provided a few for you below to review.
- As a motorist, you must stop at least 10 feet from a school bus when the bus is loading or unloading children.
Did you know that when a motorist goes around a stopped schoo bus with its stop sign extenders out, they risk being jailed and fined as this is viewed as a serious crime?
- You must not proceed until all children have crossed the street to or from the bus, the flashing red lights are no longer activated, and the stop sign on the side of the bus has been retracted.
- As for school bus drivers, they are not permitted to use cell phones, wireless communication devices, or vehicle navigation systems except when there is an emergency.
[Source: Mississippi Department of Education].
Our roadways have become a dangerous place with more and more cell phones distracting drivers, motorists operating their vehicles while intoxicated, and other factors that are known to contribute to collisions occurring. So, if you wish to make a difference and help prevent another crash from occurring, be sure the next time you approach a school bus you are careful, cautious, and obeying the law.
Do you have a child who was injured in a school bus accident in Jackson, MS?
If you have a child who was injured in a school bus accident and you are wanting to take legal action against the negligent driver who failed to adhere to the school bus rules, USAttorneys.com wants to help you find a nearby Jackson, MS bus accident lawyer now who is qualified to provide you with the assistance you need. You may be able to go after several different parties based on the circumstances surrounding the incident so it is best that you have a professional working with you and helping you make informed decisions on how to obtain justice and compensation for your child’s injuries.
