Back-to-School Bus Safety & Driver Awareness

As children across the Hudson Valley are returning to school this week, motorist, parents, and students are reminded to follow the rules for school bus safety, and use caution on the road. 

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro along with the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office are reminding everybody to follow school bus safety rules, and use caution while driving.

County Executive Marc Molinaro Said:

Throughout Dutchess County, thousands of children will step on a school bus for the first time this week. I sincerely ask drivers to obey traffic safety laws, be courteous to pedestrians and fellow motorists, and do their part so our young students arrive at school safely. The start of the school year gives us all a chance to familiarize ourselves with the rules of school bus safety. Please schedule additional time for your morning and afternoon commutes to give our children a safe ride to and from school. Our children’s safety is our top priority. By observing the law and being courteous on the roads, we can all help them have a rewarding and safe school year

Motorists are asked to pay attention and remember the following:

• Coming to a complete stop is required by law when approaching a school bus with its red lights on. This is require when approaching from either direction and includes divided highways
• Those who pass a stopped school bus will be ticketed, as the Sheriff's Office have zero tolerance for violators, and the penalties are very severe.
• When the lights on the school bus are yellow, it means that the bus is coming to a top. Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop; Do not try to past the bus before it stops
• Be aware that children may be standing on the edge of the roadway waiting for the bus. Use caution in these areas, and drive slowly
• While backing out of a driveway or garage watch for children walking or riding a bike to school
• Be aware that children running late may dart into the road without looking for traffic

Students should pay attention to the school bus safety in and around school zones, and at bus stops. Parents and school children should follow all the school bus safety rules and tips.