When Am I Supposed To Stop Around School Buses In Florida?

Do we really have to ask this question? If you're driving a vehicle, you should know the answer to this question, but a refresher course is always good!

Our friends at ABC Action News did a full report on this.

With school beginning this week, drivers will be wanting to watch for kids walking to school and be on the lookout for buses. Be careful at bus stops, as well.

In 2021, there were 2,700 school bus related crashes in Florida. On the FLHSMV website it says, "Motorists should always be alert and drive with caution around school buses and in school zones where children may be present like schools, bus stops, school buses and school parking lots. Parents should also go over safety tips with their children to make sure they are safe on and around school buses and school zones."

If you are driving a vehicle of any kind, here are some tips to keep in mind when you see a school bus:

Lookout for children near schools, bus stops, parking lots and near buses.
Some kids may be riding bikes, but still learning. Be cautious around them and expect that they could weave in front of you at any moment.
Follow the speed limits and remember to look for school zone speed limits and lower you speed.
Be cautious around crossing guards and follow their signals.
Follow your children's schools' rules for parking and pick-up.
When you are approaching a school bus in your vehicle, make sure you stop when you see the bus is stopped with the red lights flashing and arms extended that read "STOP."

You will be penalized for failure to stop for a school bus. According to FLHSMV, the fines have doubled, going from $100 to $200 (on the opposite side of where the children exit). (It's a $200 to $400 fine on the side where they enter and exit.) Your license will be suspended for up to one year if you fail to stop for a school bus twice in five years. and if a second offense is committed in five years, the person’s license will be suspended for up to one year.

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