When the lights flash on the bus, be cautious
As schools across the state, settle into another academic year, the Wisconsin State Patrol and Wisconsin School Bus Association (WSBA), are working together, to keep students safe and encourage safe driving near buses. Operation Safe Stop Week, is an annual education and enforcement effort, focused on informing motorists about the dangers of passing a stopped school bus.
The effort took place in communities throughout Wisconsin, Sept. 22-26.
“We’re grateful for the long-standing partnership with the WSBA and drivers of school buses, who go above and beyond, to ensure the safety of students and other motorists on the road,” said state patrol superintendent Tim Carnahan. “It’s important that every driver understands the rules of the road and is alert behind the wheel, especially near school buses.”
More than 1,200 citations were given in 2024, to motorists in Wisconsin, who failed to stop for a school bus. Wisconsin law requires drivers in both directions, to stop at least 20 feet from a school bus, with flashing red warning lights. The only exception is if a vehicle is traveling on the other side of a divided road, that is separated by a median or other physical barrier.
Most school buses also have amber lights. When the bus is about to stop, the flashing amber lights come on. That signals drivers to slow down, because red flashing lights will soon be activated.
Leading up to Operation Safe Stop Week, the WSBA works with its members, to help identify bus stops that commonly experience illegal passing. Wisconsin State Patrol officers focus their efforts on these identified stops and other areas of concern. This joint initiative also gives officers an opportunity to meet with drivers of school buses, and ensure their lights and other safety features are working properly.
“This week-long initiative is dedicated to protecting our children and ensuring their safety,” said WSBA executive director Cherie Hime. “Public awareness and compliance are critical to ensuring safe pupil transportation.”
Passing a school bus illegally is extremely dangerous and can be costly. In March 2024, Wisconsin Act 154 significantly increased the penalties for failing to stop for a school bus displaying flashing lights. A citation for failure to stop for a school bus now costs $676.50 and four demerit points.
