March, 1999

The sign says stop

We all remember a time when we've seen a school bus that is stopped by the side of the road with the stop arm extended. Maybe there were kids boarding the bus and maybe the bus was dropping kids off. Do you recall what you did in that instance? What does a situation like this mean for other drivers? Surprisingly, some drivers aren't sure what to do in these circumstances.

"We hear reports that drivers just pass by the bus with total disregard for the stop arm. This simple maneuver can have fatal consequences when children are involved," said Brian Kline, SGI's Manager of Vehicle Standards and Inspection. "This is especially dangerous in rural areas, where stop arms are used and there are no crosswalks for children to use."

Kline adds that stop arms are not used in urban centres since they impede traffic, but drivers must always exercise caution when approaching a stopped school bus.

When approaching a bus that has its stop arm out and flashing lights activated, motorists are required to stop no closer than five metres from the front or the back of the bus until the indicators are deactivated. Drivers who refuse to stop can be fined $250.

"Police have told us that there have been situations where someone has witnessed a vehicle that has passed by a school bus, when it clearly should have stopped. In an instance like this, the motorist could be fined after the fact if the witness records the licence plate number," said Kline.

Your best bet, Kline says, is to ensure children's safety and avoid a fine by stopping for a school bus that has its stop arm extended, and exercise caution when approaching a school bus that has pulled over.

For more information, contact:
Brian Kline
Manager, Vehicle Standards and Inspection
SGI
Regina
Phone: (306) 775-6189

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