Never pass a school bus with flashing lights
In the state of Ohio, you must stop when driving from either direction (does not apply to multiple-lane or divided highways) until the children are safely off the street and the school bus lights stop flashing. The yellow flashing lights signal you to slow down and prepare to make a complete stop. When the red light flashes, your vehicle must be fully stopped, even if the "stop sign" arm is not extended on the side of the bus.
You must stop in both directions on a two-lane road
On a road with fewer than four lanes, all traffic approaching a stopped school bus from either direction must stop at least 10 feet from the front or rear of the bus and remain stopped until the bus begins to move or the bus driver signals motorists to proceed. According to Ohio traffic laws, motorists can receive up to a $500 fine and possible suspended license for up to a year for failure to stop. If the bus is stopped on a street with four or more lanes, only traffic proceeding in the same direction as the bus must stop.
Be aware of children entering or exiting the bus
The majority of school-bus-related accidents occur when children are crossing the street. It is important to be aware of the flashing lights and children crossing the street.
Maintain a safe distance from the school bus
School buses make frequent stops, including at all railroad crossings. Maintain a 2-3 second distance from the bus at all times, even before the bus puts on its yellow lights. Be mindful that school buses drive at a slower speed than regular traffic. Do not pass a school bus unless the driver signals you to do so. Remember, you may be in the blind spot of the school bus! Also, you must stop no less than 10 feet behind the bus, so maintain your distance.
Put away your cell phone
Don't drive distracted. The majority of vehicle crashes are due to distracted drivers. No text or call is worth injury or loss of life.
What Do the Red/Yellow Lights Mean?
Yellow/Amber Flashing Lights - The bus is preparing to stop and pick up or discharge students. Normally turned on approximately 300 feet before bus stops. Motorists should prepare to stop as soon as the bus comes to a complete stop and/or the red flashing lights come on.
Red Flashing Lights - Motorists must stop. Students are exiting or boarding the bus. Stop 10 feet from the front or rear of a school bus and do not proceed until the bus resumes motion. Never pass a school bus that has red flashing lights on, even if the "stop sign" arm is not extended.
Stop Sign - Motorists must stop. Students are exiting or boarding the bus. Stop 10 feet from the front or rear of a school bus and do not proceed until the bus resumes motion. Never pass a school bus with the red stop sign is displayed or the red lights are flashing.