School Bus Safety Guide - Tips for Keeping Everyone Safe This Fall

You can count on at least two things this time every year: the return of the pumpkin spice latte and the return of school buses on our roads. Suddenly, the drive into work isn’t as smooth as it was last week, which can lead to impatience and frustration. Your first school bus safety tip is: try and leave home a bit earlier so that when a traffic snarl pops up, you can take a deep breath and relax.

As summarized by Michigan.gov, here are the most important guidelines to follow whenever you encounter a school bus on the road:

Watch the lights and know what they mean

Prepare to stop when a slowing bus has its overhead yellow lights flashing

Stop at least 20 feet away from buses when red lights are flashing, unless driving in the opposite direction on a divided highway

School buses are like traffic signals

• When overhead lights are flashing yellow: Prepare to stop

• When overhead lights are flashing red: Stop

• When hazard warning lights are flashing: Proceed with caution

Know when to stop

In the State of Michigan, you must stop for a school bus on the other side of the road, unless the opposing lane is separated by a barrier or raised median.

Be alert and aware

• Slow down in or near school and residential areas

• Look for clues such as safety patrols, crossing guards, bicycles, and playgrounds-that indicate children might be in the area

• Watch for children between parked cars and other objects

Don’t be a Distracted Driver

No matter the season, distracted driving is a constant, growing and unnecessary safety problem. Please put down your phone. Keep your eyes on the road. Adjust your rear and side view mirrors and use them. Be careful and vigilant when backing out of a driveway or turning onto a main road.

School bus safety tips for students

• Always stay in sight of the bus driver.

• Don't hurry off the bus and check traffic before exiting.

• Don't go back to the bus after exiting.

• Stay 10 feet away from the road while waiting for the bus.

• Never run or play around with your classmates near the bus.

• Wear a brightly colored jacket, hat, or backpack to make yourself more visible

School bus safety tips for parents

Here’s an excellent short video to watch and share so that everyone can have a safe, productive, and enjoyable school year.