A Message from Upton Police Chief Bradley on Bus Safety

from Upton Police Chief Bradley

In light of a recent motor vehicle crash involving a school bus, I would like to take this opportunity remind motorists and students of a few important safety tips.   The following information is a collection of tips provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as well as a few reminders of Massachusetts General Law related to school buses.

  For Motorists:

• When driving, watch for children traveling to and from school.  Be prepared to react if a child steps into the roadway.
• Drive slowly.  Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.
• Be alert.  Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
• Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop and load or unload children.  Motorists should slow down and be prepared to stop.
• Red flashing lights and extended stop arm mean the bus has stopped and children are boarding or exiting the bus.  Motorists must come to a complete stop a safe distance (100 feet) from the bus and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the arm is retracted, and the bus begins moving before they start driving again.
• A first violation of failure to stop for a school bus can result in a $250 fine. Subsequent violations will incur license revocations and increased fines.
• No person shall operate a motor vehicle within a distance of 100 feet behind a school bus.
• A violation of operating a motor vehicle within a distance of 100 feet behind a school bus may result in a $35 fine.

School Bus Safety Tips for Students:

• When the bus approaches, stand at least 3 giant steps (6 feet) away from the edge of the road, and line up away from the street.
• Wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver says that it is okay before stepping on the bus.
• When crossing the street in front of the bus, walk to a point at least 5 giant steps (10 feet) ahead of the bus before you cross.  Be sure the bus driver can see you, and you can see the driver. Wait for the driver to give you the signal it is clear to cross in front of the bus.
• Walk at least three giant steps away from the side of the bus any time you are walking beside the bus.
• If you drop something near or under the bus, tell the bus driver.  Never try to pick it up. The driver may not see you and begin to drive away.

Please review these safety tips with your students and remind them to follow the safety rules established by the bus company.  Motorists are reminded to allow additional time to reach their destination and to be attentive to students walking to school and gathered at bus stops.  Working together we can ensure the safety of our children and motorists, while preventing accidents or tragedies from occurring.