PennDOT Issues School Bus Safety Tips

August 2008

In an effort to protect students as they begin the new school year, PennDOT has issued the following school bus safety tip reminders for motorists and students.

Pennsylvania's school bus stopping law requires motorists nearing a bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm to stop at least 10 feet from the bus. Cars approaching from all directions are required to come to a stop.

PennDOT offers the following school bus safety tips for students:

• Arrive at the bus stop five minutes early to avoid running across the street to catch the bus.
• Make sure to look LEFT-RIGHT-LEFT to make sure that all cars have stopped.
• Avoid the School Bus Danger Zone – stay at least 10 giant steps away from the bus on all sides so that the bus driver can see you.
• When getting on and off the bus, make sure that all drawstrings and loose objects are secure so that they don't get caught in the door or handrail.
• NEVER walk behind the school bus.
• Talk quietly on the bus so that the driver is not distracted.
• Remain seated at all times and wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before exiting.