Driving safely around school buses is a responsibility for all drivers, especially in Connecticut, where specific rules ensure the safety of children boarding and exiting school buses. Understanding when you need to stop and how to respond when you encounter a school bus on the road is not just about following the law—it's about keeping kids safe, avoiding fines and penalties to your driving record. You also want to avoid being involved in a bus accident.
In this article, we will explain the laws surrounding school bus stops in Connecticut. We'll cover what drivers need to know about stopping for school buses, the penalties for not following these rules, and tips for staying vigilant on the road. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of when you need to stop for a school bus and how to do so safely.
If you have specific questions or need legal help, contact the car accident attorneys with Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law in Connecticut. Our team can help you if you’ve been in an accident.
Connecticut Laws For School Bus Stopping
In Connecticut, all drivers are required to stop for school buses that are displaying flashing red lights and extending their stop arm. According to Connecticut law, this rule applies regardless of whether you are approaching the bus from behind or traveling in the opposite direction on a two-lane road. The flashing red lights and extended stop arm indicate that children are either boarding or exiting the bus, and drivers must come to a complete stop to ensure their safety.
Rules For Two-Lane Roads
Most roads in Connecticut are two lanes, with traffic flowing in opposite directions. When you encounter a school bus on a two-lane road with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, all traffic in both directions must stop. Drivers must remain stopped until the school bus turns off its red lights, retracts its stop arm, and begins moving again.
Rules For Multi-Lane Roads
If you encounter a school bus on a multi-lane road that does not have a physical divider, the same rules apply: traffic in both directions must stop. Unlike some other states, Connecticut does not provide exemptions for multi-lane roads unless a physical barrier is present. This law ensures that all children crossing the street are safe, regardless of the size of the road.
Rules for Divided Highways
The only instance where you are not required to stop for a school bus in Connecticut is when you are driving on the opposite side of a divided highway. A divided highway has a physical barrier, such as a concrete median or grassy divide, separating traffic. In this case, vehicles traveling in the opposite direction of the school bus are not required to stop. However, if there is no physical barrier—only a painted line—vehicles on both sides must come to a complete stop.
Penalties for Failing to Stop for a School Bus in Connecticut
Failing to stop for a school bus when required is a serious offense in Connecticut. The state has implemented strict penalties to enforce compliance and protect children:
Fines and Points on Your License
If you are caught passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights, you may face a fine of up to $500 for a first offense. Repeat offenders face even steeper penalties, including higher fines and points on their driver’s license. The Connecticut DMV assigns points for various traffic violations, and accumulating points can lead to higher insurance rates and, in some cases, license suspension.
Increased Insurance Rates
Drivers who receive citations for passing a stopped school bus often see an increase in their insurance premiums. Insurance companies view this as a serious violation that poses a risk to public safety, so even one infraction can result in a hike in your rates.
Other Legal Consequences
Connecticut law also allows for harsher consequences for drivers who fail to stop for a school bus and, in doing so, cause a bus accident or injury. In these cases, you may face additional legal penalties, including possible criminal charges.
Safety Tips for Driving Near School Buses
Stay Alert
School buses make frequent stops, especially during morning and afternoon school hours. Pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in school zones and residential areas, where children may be present. Slow down and be prepared to stop when you see a school bus.
Watch for Yellow Flashing Lights
When a school bus activates its yellow flashing lights, it is a warning that the bus is about to stop. This signals drivers to slow down and prepare to come to a complete stop. Passing a bus with yellow flashing lights is not illegal, but it’s a good idea to slow down and remain cautious, as the red lights will likely follow shortly.
Be Patient
It may seem inconvenient to wait for a school bus, especially if you are in a hurry. However, stopping for a school bus takes only a few moments and is essential for the safety of children crossing the road. Remain patient and wait until the school bus signals that it is safe to proceed.
What to Do If You Witness a Violation
If you witness another driver failing to stop for a school bus, it is important to report the incident to local authorities. Note the make, model, color, and license plate of the vehicle, and provide as much information as possible about the location and time of the violation. In some cases, school buses are equipped with cameras to capture license plates of violators, which can be used as evidence to enforce penalties.
For more information on Connecticut’s school bus laws, you can visit the official Connecticut State Department of Education website.
Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help
Navigating Connecticut bus accident claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced accident lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.
Contact us now for a free legal review.