Tips for drivers and parents to keep children safe at bus stops

You probably heard reports on the news over the past few weeks of children being killed by careless drivers at bus stop in preventable accidents in accidents in Pennsylvania, Florida, Kentucky, Indiana, Mississippi.

As a result, the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminded drivers to be more careful and obey state laws approaching a school bus or school crossing and issued reminders for both drivers and pedestrians.

What can you do as a driver to prevent school stop accidents:

• Be alert and slow down when driving in neighborhoods with school zones.
• Watch for children walking, playing or assembling near bus stops. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
• Obey the school bus laws in your state, as well as the flashing light signal systems used on school buses.
• Flashing yellow lights indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop their vehicles.
• Flashing red lights and extended stop-arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. Drivers must stop their cars and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again.

What can you do as a student or caregiver to stay safe

• Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. Stand at least three giant steps (six feet) away from the curb. The bus stop is not a place to run or play.
• When the school bus arrives, wait until the bus comes to a complete stop, the door opens, and the driver says it’s okay before approaching the bus door. Use the handrails to avoid falling.
• Never walk behind a school bus. Walk on a sidewalk or along the side of the street. Cross the street in front of the bus with at least five giant steps (10 feet) between the front of the bus and you. Make eye contact with the bus driver before crossing to make sure the driver can see you.
• If you drop something near the school bus, like a ball or book, tell the bus driver right away. Do not try to pick up the item, because the driver might not be able to see you.