School Bus Violations
Welp, I hoped that I wouldn’t need to write on this topic again so soon, but the motorists of Harford County have spoken. Since the first day of school this year, our Automated School Safety Program has issued 1228 violations for drivers passing a school bus that was stopped with the red lights activated. Let’s take a few moments for some friendly reminders when it comes to school bus safety.
First, anytime a bus is stopped with its red lights activated, Maryland law requires ALL vehicles to stop at least 20 feet prior to the bus. This means, if you are approaching the bus from behind, you must stop 20 feet back. If you are approaching towards the bus from the other side of the street, you must stop at least 20 feet before the front of your vehicle is even with the bus.
Second, the only time you need NOT stop is if there is a physical barrier between the travel lanes of the road. This could be a concrete barrier (A.K.A. “Jersey wall”), a raised median, or a grass culvert. The painted lines on a roadway do not count as a physical barrier.
Finally, ALL vehicles on the road must stop regardless of how many lanes there are. Many of our “hot spots” involve multi-lane roads. In fact, our biggest problem area is on Rte 543 just south of the Bel Air Bypass. There are multiple lanes of travel in each direction, but no physical barrier. If you are anywhere on this section of road and the bus is stopped with red lights activated, you must stop.
It is vitally important that we all do our part to keep our kids safe. This is especially important when they are entering or exiting a school bus. The Traffic Unit will be doing their part by beefing up school bus enforcement efforts in all areas of the county. Remember, an automated citation is $250, but if a Deputy catches you in the act, the fine is $570 and could add 3 points to your driving record.
Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324