Thousands of students will soon be heading back to school and Indiana State Police at Evansville want to remind all motorists the importance of slowing down and keeping a watchful eye for students.
Troopers also want to remind drivers they are required by law to stop and not pass a school bus when the red lights are flashing and the flashing stop arm is extended. Drivers are not required by law to stop for a school bus when they are approaching from the opposite direction and there is a concrete barrier or grassy median dividing the lanes. Drivers traveling on a multiple lane highway with no concrete barrier or grassy media are required to stop in all directions when a school bus stops to load or unload children.
Indiana State Police encourage the following safety tips:
• Slow down in all school zones.
• Follow other vehicles at a safe distance.
• Don’t be a distracted driver. Stay off your cell phone.
• Expect brief delays around school areas.
• Keep a watchful eye for students that are walking to and from school.
• When approaching a school bus always be prepared to stop.
Disregarding a school bus stop arm is a serious violation and one that school bus drivers are quick to report.
