CPD reminds drivers of School Bus laws
It’s back to school time for City of Calhoun students and the Calhoun Police Department would like to share some school bus safety tips for students and motorists.
School buses are the safest mode of motorized transportation for getting children to and from school, but injuries can occur if kids are not careful and aware when getting on and off the bus.
Teach kids to wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before getting off and never to walk behind the bus.
If your child needs to cross the street after exiting the bus, he or she should take five giant steps in front of the bus, make eye contact with the bus driver and cross when the driver indicates it’s safe.
Instruct younger kids to use handrails when boarding or exiting the bus. Be careful of straps or drawstrings that could get caught in the door.
Drivers should always follow the speed limit and slowdown in school zones and near bus stops. Remember to stay alert and look for kids who may be trying to get to or from the school bus.
Slowdown and stop if you’re driving near a school bus that is flashing yellow or red lights. This means the bus is either preparing to stop ( yellow) or already stopped ( red), and children are getting on or off.
“The first time offence for passing a school bus when the stop sign is out, is a mandatory court appearance and a fine of $ 585,” said Lt. Tony Pyle of the CPD.