With students back in school, all Colorado drivers should be aware of a new law designed to keep students safe as they get on or off their school bus.

For years, drivers behind a stopped school bus have known that it was illegal to go around the bus, but the new law requires drivers who are approaching a bus with flashing lights and an extended stop arm to stop 20 feet in front of the bus.

Drivers must remain stopped until the bus’s red lights stop flashing and children are safely clear.

“It’s really important for drivers to follow this common-sense rule of the road,” said Lisa Cyr, Transportation Coordinator for Westminster Public Schools. “It’s so easy for kids to dart into traffic without looking or assuming that drivers are stopping in both directions.” 

Exception to the Rule

The only exception is when a median or other physical barrier, like grass or trees, separates the two lanes of traffic. It’s important to understand that painted lines or painted medians do not qualify as a physical barrier.

Safety experts add that even when a physical barrier is present that doesn’t require drivers to stop, vehicles should proceed with caution.

“Any time drivers are around students, they should pay extra attention and know that students can be easily distracted by friends and phones. It’s up to the adults to do everything they can to prevent a tragedy,” said Cyr.