School bus rules seek to ensure student safety. Each year, 4-6 students die in a school bus accident each year in Ontario.
For Drivers, you must stop for school buses with flashing red lights and also never pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload passengers. This goes for both directions of travel irrespective of what lane the school bus is in. Slow down in school zones and watch for children/pedestrians, especially at the bus stops and crosswalks.
For passengers, you must wait for the driver’s signal to exit or enter the school bus. Also, it’s important to look both ways when entering the road and cross in front of the school bus to avoid any danger outside the peripheral of the school bus. When waiting for a school bus, wait at a safe distance from the road. Once on the school bus, find a seat immediately and stay seated while in motion.
In Ontario, failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing carries a serious penalty of 6 demerit points and a fine from $400 to $2,000 for a first offense. You must stop at least 20 meters behind or away from a stopped school bus. Only proceed after the red lights have turned off and stopping arm is no longer activated.
The team at JRJ LAW is here to help!
If you or a loved one have been injured in a school bus accident, you may be entitled to receive the help you deserve. Contact JRJ LAW at 1 (844) DIAL JRJ and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.