School bus safety

The St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department is encouraging drivers to keep an eye out for youngsters and busses in the coming days ahead.

As students prepare to head back into the classroom the next week or so, the sheriff’s department is reminding everyone to help make the school year a safe one. The department is once again asking drivers to be on the lookout for busses and be aware in school zones.

Every child deserves to get to and from school safely.

When you see a school bus, YELLOW FLASHING LIGHTS mean the bus is preparing to stop — slow down and be ready to stop yourself. RED FLASHING LIGHTS and the extended stop arm means you must stop at least 20 feet away from the bus in both directions, unless you are traveling on the opposite side of a divided highway.

In 2024, there were 54 crashes at school bus stops while bus lights and stop arms were activated. This resulted in 26 injuries and one fatality. These crashed are preventable.

Remember, passing a stopped school bus is not only dangerous, but it can result in a civil fine up to $500 with more significant penalties if someone is injured.

Let’s all do our part to keep our students, school staff and bus drivers safe.

Also remember to be respectful to crossing guards helping students get across the street.