Monroe, MI – With school back in session for local students, drivers need to be aware of buses, and children walking to and from school. Law enforcement in the area are being vigilant about drivers illegally passing school buses.
During Operation School Start, Monroe County officers will cite drivers for illegal passing of school buses…calling the effort Operation School Start. Monroe County Law enforcement agencies will work with their local school districts to provide education and enforcement for their communities.
According to the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center, there were 1,041 crashes involving school buses in Michigan, including 81 that occurred at school bus stops. From the 81 bus stop crashes, there were 38 serious injuries and 1 fatality.
Drivers should prepare to stop when they see the overhead flashing yellow lights of a school bus and stop at least 20 feet away when the overhead lights flash red. Drivers who pass stopped school buses may be charged with a civil infraction carrying a fine up to $500.
Drivers who pass a stopped school bus, and cause injury, face a misdemeanor charge and a fine up to $1,000 and or up to 1 year in jail. Drivers who pass a stopped school bus, and cause death, are subject to a felony with a fine up to $7,500 and or up to 15 years in prison.
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