Williamson County sheriff urges drivers to stop for school buses, stay alert

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Ill., (KBSI) — The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists, parents and students that school bus safety is a shared responsibility.

Officials said school buses transport children each day, and drivers are required by law to stop when a bus displays flashing red lights and an extended stop arm. Those laws are designed to protect children as they enter and exit buses, often while crossing roadways.

The sheriff’s office urged drivers to slow down and remain alert in school zones and residential neighborhoods and to never pass a stopped school bus. Parents are also encouraged to talk with their children about safe behavior around buses and roadways.

Authorities said preventable crashes continue to occur each year because of distracted or impatient driving. The sheriff’s office said it will continue enforcing school bus safety laws but emphasized that enforcement alone cannot prevent tragedies.

Officials urged motorists to slow down, stop when required and stay alert to help ensure students arrive at school safely and return home at the end of the day.