State Patrol Reminds Drivers to Follow School Bus Stop Laws as Schools Reopen

Colorado's State Patrol emphasizes the importance of adhering to traffic laws related to stopped school buses as districts gear up for the new academic year. A recently implemented regulation, effective May 24, mandates that drivers approaching a stationary school bus from an opposing lane must halt unless a physical barrier—such as a median or barrier wall—divides the roads. Painted lines alone are no longer sufficient to meet safety requirements. Passing a school bus with flashing red lights remains a significant safety concern, posing risks to children boarding or alighting from buses. The patrol reminds drivers that the flashing lights and stop signs serve a vital safety purpose. In 2024, law enforcement issued 15 citations for illegal passing of stopped school buses, with nine citations reported so far this year. Drivers must stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus displaying red lights, regardless of their direction of travel, and wait until the lights are extinguished before proceeding. Extra caution is advised when children may be crossing the street after the bus resumes movement. Violating these laws can result in fines up to $300, a mandatory court appearance, an...