Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds drivers of school bus safety laws, new $500 fine

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KBSI) — The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers, parents and students about school bus safety as National School Bus Safety Week begins Monday, Oct. 19.

The annual observance emphasizes the importance of following traffic laws and practicing safe behavior around school buses.

The patrol is also highlighting a new Missouri law that imposes a $500 fine on motorists who fail to stop for a school bus while students are boarding or exiting.

Under Missouri law, drivers traveling in either direction on a two-lane road must stop when a school bus is stopped to load or unload students.

On a four-lane highway, only motorists traveling in the same direction as the bus are required to stop.

The patrol encourages drivers to remain alert in school zones, watch for children near bus stops and allow extra travel time during school hours.

Motorists should also be prepared for children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway.

The patrol encourages parents to remind children about appropriate behavior while riding a school bus.

Students should remain seated, keep aisles clear and avoid shouting, throwing objects or extending anything outside bus windows.

Children should also know the locations of emergency exits and follow instructions from their bus driver.

When exiting the bus, students should use the handrail and stay at least 10 feet in front of the bus when crossing the street.

The patrol reminds drivers, parents and students to remain patient and attentive to help prevent crashes and keep children safe.

For more information about Missouri’s school bus safety laws, visit the Missouri Revised Statutes.