With the school year well underway, Manning RCMP is reminding all motorists that school bus safety remains a top priority. School buses remain on the roads for a few more months, and children are continuing to rely on drivers to follow the rules and keep them safe.
Early mornings, the impending time change, and busy routines can increase distractions behind the wheel. Now is not the time to be complacent. Children can be unpredictable near roadways, especially when entering or exiting a school bus. That’s why it’s crucial to remain vigilant and aware of bus stop procedures and passing laws.
To help keep our roads safe for all students, Manning RCMP offers the following school bus safety reminders:
- If a school bus is stopped with red flashing lights and an extended stop arm, all drivers in both directions parallel to the bus must stop, unless the roadway is physically divided by a median.
- Do not proceed until the red lights have stopped flashing and the stop arm has been retracted.
- Flashing yellow lights mean the bus is preparing to stop — drivers must slow down and prepare to stop.
- Failing to stop for a school bus can result in a fine of up to $567 and six demerit points.
“With the recent uptick in complaints, we at the Manning RCMP are urging every driver in our community to stay vigilant and exercise heightened awareness around school buses. A moment of mental complacency or impatience can end in catastrophe. With a few months left in the school year, it’s imperative that we remain focused so everyone can get home safely.” – Cpl. David Fogarty
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