Numerous complaints have been received by Putnam County law enforcement agencies about drivers passing stopped school buses.  As school children countywide get ready to return to school from their holiday break, motorists are reminded that, under New York State law, it is illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped to discharge or receive students. 

When red flashing lights are activated, traffic is required to stop in both directions on undivided highways, regardless of the number of lanes, to allow students to board or exit the school bus.  Putnam County Sheriff Robert Langley says most school bus related deaths and injuries occur while children cross the street after being discharged from the bus, rather than in collisions that involve school buses. 

Passing a school bus with red lights is punishable with fines ranging from $250 to $1,000.  Five points may be assessed to a driver’s license, and penalties can also include possible imprisonment (up to 30 days for the first offense and180 days for a third or subsequent conviction).  Langley says they are asking community members to help gather information about violators by getting license plate numbers, the location of the violation and a description of the car and motorists whenever possible. 

School buses activate yellow flashing lights to alert motorists that they are preparing to discharge or receive students. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign arm signals to motorists that a school bus is stopped and children are either boarding or exiting the bus.