By Peter DePaolis
Attorney
Attorney
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 14 children die annually in school transportation-related crashes. Since school is back in session, safety should be a top priority for all drivers.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while on the road this school year:
- In all 50 states, it is illegal to pass a stopped school bus that is loading/unloading children
- Maryland, Washington D.C. and Virginia law states that you can pass a stopped school bus on the opposite side of the road; however, all traffic behind a school bus must always stop
- The 10 feet surrounding a school bus is considered the most dangerous area for children; be sure you give an appropriate amount of space to buses while driving
- School buses use yellow flashing lights to communicate to drivers that they are stopping. A red flashing light and an extended arm signal indicates the bus is stopping and children are getting on/off
- Speeding tickets in school zones can be expensive and laws are strict. If you are approaching a school zone and see flashing signals, 25 mph is the maximum speed limit you should be traveling.
Injured in a Bus Accident? Contact Our Experienced Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a bus accident, contact our Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia injury attorneys today at (202) 659-5500 for a consultation on how to develop your case.
Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.
Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Virginia Injury Attorneys