With the new school year underway, the Montgomery County Police Department is reminding drivers to slow down, remain alert and follow Maryland’s school bus stopping laws (illustration below).
Drivers traveling in both directions must stop for a school bus displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm on a two-lane road, multi-lane road or roadway with a center turn lane.
On a divided highway separated by a physical barrier, grass median or wall, only vehicles traveling on the same side as the school bus are required to stop. Drivers traveling in the opposite direction may continue with caution.
Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop when a school bus activates its yellow flashing lights. When the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, motorists must stop at least 20 feet from the bus. “Slow down. Stay alert. Stop for school buses. Keep kids safe,” MCPD stated.
