Free Case Evaluation
(253) 272-5226Free Case Evaluation
(253) 272-5226We all know to stop when a school bus extends its red stop sign, but sometimes the rules aren’t so clear. What if the bus is on the opposite side of a four-lane road, or there’s a median in between?
Washington State school bus laws exist to protect children, who are often unpredictable and harder to see around large vehicles. According to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, school buses transport more than 800,000 students in Washington every day. With so many children getting on and off buses, the risks are high when drivers don’t follow the law.
This guide will help you understand exactly when you need to stop and when you don’t, so you can share the road with confidence.
Let’s look at what Washington law says about drivers’ responsibilities when they encounter school buses. To read the statute in full, see RCW 46.61.370.
Here is a quick overview of your obligations:
You must stop in either direction when a school bus displays a visual signal to do so. Typically, this is a stop sign and flashing red lights. This law should feel familiar to drivers.
If you are traveling on the opposite side of the road as a school bus, you do not have to stop if the roadway is physically divided. For example, if there is a barrier or median separating the road, you may continue driving. This only applies if you are traveling in the opposite direction of the bus.
If you are traveling on the opposite side of the road as a school bus and there are three or more lanes in total, you do not have to stop. For example, this could be a two-lane road with a center turn lane, or a four-lane road with two lanes in each direction.
By law, a school bus driver may only display the stop sign and flashing red lights if actively loading or unloading children. Even if you are not legally required to stop, it’s important to stay cautious. Children can be unpredictable and may move suddenly into the street.
If you’d like to see a visual illustration of these laws, King 5 created a helpful news segment you can watch here:
Many Washington school buses are equipped with cameras, which can capture drivers making illegal passing violations. Infractions may be issued based on camera footage, similar to red light cameras or school zone speed cameras.
In other words, it’s possible to receive a ticket in the mail if you fail to stop when a bus displays its stop sign. Just because you don’t see a police officer doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Passing a school bus not only puts children at risk but can also result in a costly ticket.
Here’s another reason to follow Washington’s school bus laws: the penalties are significant. According to RCW 46.61.370, fines for unlawfully passing a school bus can be double the amount otherwise permitted under RCW 46.63.110. In addition, your insurance premiums may rise, creating a long-term financial impact.
Since we’re talking about back-to-school safety, here are a few added reminders of spots to use caution during school seasons and hours.
In Washington, the speed limit in school and playground zones is 20 miles per hour. These zones are usually marked with signs, posted hours, or flashing lights. Many are photo-enforced.
Each school has its own system for directing traffic during pick-up and drop-off. Always follow staff directions and posted signs. Drivers who cut against the flow not only cause frustration but also increase the risk of accidents.
Even beyond school zones, keep an eye out for children walking or biking to and from school. Obey posted speed limits and practice defensive driving. Children, especially younger ones, may be focused on their friends or in a hurry and may not notice you.
What should you do if you see a driver pass a stopped school bus or drive recklessly in a school zone?
While it is generally illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving, RCW 46.61.672 makes an exception for reporting emergencies to law enforcement.
Even when you do everything right, accidents can still happen if another driver ignores school bus or school zone laws. These cases can be especially serious, since children are often the ones at risk.
If you or your child has been injured in a crash involving unsafe driving near a school bus or school zone, Ladenburg Law Injury Attorneys are here to help. Our team has represented accident victims throughout Tacoma and Pierce County.
There is no fee to find out if we can help. Call us at (253) 272-5226 or fill out our short contact form today.