Rep. Pizzuto Highlights New School Bus Safety Law

Students in Waterbury are starting a new school year this week, while Middlebury/District 15 students will be back in class on September 1st! That means buses will be back on the roads and children waiting at the end of their driveways or on the side of a road for the bus.

I supported a bill this session, which was signed into law, requiring a mandatory six-month suspension of a license of any driver who, a third or subsequent time, is caught violating the state law on stopping for school buses.

Under existing law, drivers must stop their vehicles generally at least ten feet from the front or rear of a school bus that is displaying its flashing red signal lights and remain there until the bus no longer displays lights. Any person who violates this law faces a $450 fine for the first offense and a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both for a subsequent offense.

I wanted to remind everyone to be careful on our public roadways when school is in session, especially near bus stops, schools, playgrounds, and athletic fields.

Safety tips for drivers:

• State law prohibits passing a school bus with its lights flashing. Some school buses are equipped with cameras to record passing drivers.
• Observe the no-passing law and expect the unexpected when traveling near school buses in school driveways.
• Watch for children, especially when driving in neighborhoods with school zones.
• Watch for children walking in the street, especially if there are no sidewalks in the neighborhood.

Safety tips for parents and children:

• Be waiting at your bus stop 5 minutes ahead of the scheduled pick up.
• Wait 10 feet back from the road and wear visible clothing.
• Always wait for the bus driver's head nod before boarding the bus or crossing the street. They're watching out for you!
• Avoid distracting the bus driver for anything other than an emergency.