Stop for the Stops: Protecting Children on the Road in Westchester County
School buses are a lifeline for millions of children, ensuring safe transportation to and from school. However, their safety hinges not just on drivers but also on other motorists who share the road. In Westchester County, recent initiatives have highlighted the importance of protecting children, especially from the dangers posed by drivers illegally passing stopped school buses. Here’s what you need to know to keep our roads safer.
The Dangers of Illegally Passing School Buses
Illegally passing a stopped school bus isn’t just a traffic violation—it’s a serious safety hazard that endangers the lives of children. Every year, countless stop-arm violations occur, putting young students at risk as they enter or exit buses. Understanding the gravity of this issue is crucial to preventing tragic accidents on our roads.
Increased Risk of Pedestrian Accidents for Children
The most dangerous part of a child’s school bus journey isn’t the ride itself—it’s getting on and off the bus. Motorists who fail to stop for buses with extended stop-arms put children at significant risk of being struck while crossing the road. Alarmingly, children aged 9 or younger are most vulnerable, with over 73% of school bus loading and unloading fatalities occurring in this age group.
Potential for Serious Injuries and Fatalities
From 2012 to 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 206 school-age children were killed in school-transportation-related accidents. Many of these fatalities involved pedestrians struck by vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses. This underscores the severity of stop-arm violations and the tragic consequences that can result from a few seconds of impatience or distraction on the road.
School Bus Safety Laws in New York State
New York State has strict laws in place to protect children as they travel to and from school. These laws are designed to ensure that motorists come to a full stop for school buses displaying red flashing lights and extended stop-arms. Familiarizing yourself with these rules—and the penalties for breaking them—is key to maintaining road safety for all.
Stop Signs and Flashing Lights Require Complete Stops
In New York State, drivers are required by law to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights and extended stop-arms. This applies to vehicles approaching from both directions, whether on a two-lane road or an undivided highway. The flashing lights signal that children are either boarding or exiting the bus, and failure to stop can put young lives at risk.
Penalties for Illegally Passing a School Bus
Passing a stopped school bus in New York State is not only dangerous but also costly. First-time offenders face a fine of $225, with penalties increasing to $275 for repeat violations.
The financial consequences reflect the seriousness of these infractions and aim to deter reckless driving behavior. New initiatives, like the Buspatrol camera system recently piloted in the Hendrick Hudson School District, are helping to enforce these laws by catching and penalizing violators.
What to Do if Your Child is Injured in a School Bus Accident
Despite precautions, accidents can still happen. If your child is injured in a school bus-related accident, it’s essential to take immediate steps to ensure their safety and protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, it’s critical to get a thorough medical evaluation.
- Document the Incident: Take photos, gather witness information, and note details about the time, location, and involved vehicles.
- Contact Legal Representation: A qualified attorney can help you navigate the legal process, whether it’s pursuing compensation for medical bills or holding negligent parties accountable.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer with Experience in Bus Accidents
Clients understand that it’s the lawyer they choose—not just the firm—that makes the difference. At Denlea & Carton, we are privileged to serve your legal needs, and we work tirelessly to ensure that your confidence in us is well-placed. With a foundation built on honesty, integrity, and transparency, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to every client.
Our relationships with clients are personal, and we treat your case as if we were advocating for our own families. We maintain open communication throughout the process, ensuring you are a true partner in the litigation. Whether celebrating victories or addressing your concerns, we are with you every step of the way.
At Denlea & Carton, our personal commitment to your case sets us apart. We invite you to read our clients’ experiences on our Testimonials page and welcome the opportunity to be of service to you. Contact us today at (914) 331-0100 to discuss your case.
