The Revelstoke RCMP is reminding drivers to stop for school buses, noting an uptick in the amount of driving complaints police are receiving.
Police said motorists are passing school buses when they are stopped, including sometimes at high rates of speed.
“Motorists are reminded that all vehicle traffic, traveling in both directions, is required to stop for school buses with their flashing red lights engaged and or their red stop signs extended, while picking up and dropping off children,” said Sgt. Chris Dodd in a statement. “Failure to do so puts those students, embarking and disembarking that bus, in needless danger and can lead to tragic outcomes.”
Some school bus drivers experience cars illegally passing a few times a day, including in areas where there is no marked school, such as in community drop off points.
Violators that pass a school bus while its red flashing lights are engaged and/or its stop signs are extended could face a fine of $368 under section 149 of the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
Pop quiz: What’s the difference between a flashing amber light and a flashing red light on a school bus? If you’re looking for a refresher on the road rules around school buses, take a couple minutes to re-up with this B.C. transportation ministry guide.
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