Operation Safe Stop

BINGHAMTON, NY - Wednesday, April 2, 2008 has been designated as Operation Safe Stop Day. Operation Safe Stop seeks to promote school bus safety through awareness and enforcement efforts throughout New York State. The Broome County Traffic Safety Board is encouraging all motorists to help ensure the safety of our child pedestrians by being conscientious drivers and abiding by all traffic laws on the road.

According to the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, an estimated 50,000 motor vehicles illegally pass New York State school buses every day. Between 2002 and 2006, 188 pedestrians under the age of 19 were injured and 2 were killed by motorists in New York State passing stopped school buses. It is illegal and very dangerous to pass a stopped school bus when the large red lights located on the top of the bus are flashing or when the bus extends their stop signal arm. This includes buses that are on the opposite sides of divided highways, on multiple roadways, in parking lots, and on school grounds in front of school entrances. Passing a stopped school bus under these conditions could result in a fine. A minimum fine in New York State for a first conviction is $250.00 but could be as much as $400.00 and possibly up to 30 days of imprisonment. The only exception to this law is if the bus driver or a police officer signals that you may pass.

To avoid hitting a child or receiving a ticket here are some quick tips to remember:

• Flashing lights mean the bus is picking up or discharging students

• Drivers must stop whether you are approaching the school bus from the front or overtaking it from the rear

• Watch carefully for children near school buildings, in areas where school buses are traveling or where there are signs for school zones or bus stops.

For more information on school bus safety, contact Christine Muss, Traffic Safety Coordinator for the Broome County Health Department at 607.778.2807.

Older Press Releases are online for archival purposes only. If you need updated information regarding items contained in these press releases please call or email the contact person listed for the release. Thank you.

Published Date: 04-01-2008