With classes beginning Monday, motorists urged to review laws regarding school buses
With school starting Monday in Carson City, it is time to pay extra attention to school zones and crosswalks. We talk about this every school year and yes, it is important that we drive slower and take additional measures when in those areas where children are present.
What about school buses? Many students are transported by them and there are rules that apply when approaching them. For example it is illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.
Buses are equipped with yellow and red flashing lights.
The yellow is used to alert motorists that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. The red is activated and an extended stop sign arm signals drivers that the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off the bus.
Traffic in both directions must stop on undivided roadways when students are entering or exiting the bus. Stop your vehicle far enough from a stopped bus to allow children a safe area to enter and exit the bus.
Remember that children are unpredictable and great care must be taken even after the bus has left to ensure that they make it home safely.
Avoid following too closely behind a bus as visibility is limited and a crash may occur should the bus stop suddenly.
This may seem very elementary but every year we have buses rear ended by vehicles, drivers passing while the red lights are lit and pedestrians struck in crosswalks. By paying attention and slowing down, you reduce the risk of a child being injured.
— Sgt. Scott McDaniel is with the Carson City Sheriff's Office and writes regular public safety columns.