Back To School Safety

State drivers are reminded to be aware of “back to school” pedestrian and bicycle traffic this year. Operators are also urged to use extra caution as they travel on Connecticut’s roadways and be alert to children who may be hurrying to and from school. It is mandatory that a vehicle stop for school buses that have flashing red warning lights, whether they are approaching or following the school bus. Failure to obey this law puts children at greater risk and carries a penalty for motorists, with fines starting at $450 for a first offense.

More often than not, children, who are injured in accidents involving school buses, receive their injuries as they are emerging or exiting the bus. Children should have a safe place to wait for the bus, away from traffic and the street. Avoid roughhousing at bus stops. When dropped off, children should exit the bus and walk ten steps ahead of it before crossing in front. The driver can see children best if they are farther back from the bus. Students should always use handrails when entering and exiting the bus. Children should never approach a bus until the driver gives a signal that it is okay to approach. Children should be aware of traffic in the roadways around them before they approach a bus. Drivers are required to stop; however, not all do. They should always look both ways.