Reminder to watch for buses and kids with school underway

School is back in session, and the Indiana Department of Transportation is reminding Hoosiers to look out for the increased number of school buses on the road.

State Representative Jack Jordan said, “Our goal is to keep Hoosier students safe and make sure drivers are aware of school bus stop procedures. Indiana law requires drivers to stop when a school bus has its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. Failure to do so can result in a traffic ticket and your driver's license being suspended.”

In a release, Jordan provided helpful reminders from the Indiana State Police on how to navigate the roads as school buses pick up and drop off students:

Two-lane roadways: If a school bus stops on a two-lane road and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, all motorists MUST stop.

Multi-lane roadways with no barrier between lanes: When a school bus stops on a multi-lane roadway without a barrier and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, all motorists MUST stop.

Multi-lane roadway with a grassy and/or concrete barrier: When a school bus stops and the red flashing lights are activated and the stop arm is extended, only vehicles behind the bus MUST stop. Vehicles that are approaching from the opposite side are NOT required to stop.

Representative Jordan said in closing, “Above all, slow down and be alert to the increased number of pedestrians and bus stops on your commutes. Students should also pay attention while crossing streets and at bus stops.  Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe school year.”