Be aware of school buses, signs

As classes officially are underway today, there's certainly going to be an increase in traffic to and from school buildings due to licensed high school drivers and, of course, school buses. It's important to keep eyes on the road and be cautious of other drivers, but also signs denoting school zones.

Trooper Regina Schulmeister with the Wyoming Highway Patrol said passing a school bus while it has its stop arm extended and red lights flashing - to allow students time to get on and off - is a $420 fine. Those who are caught again within a year face a $1,000 fine. Schulmeister further noted the stop sign applies to both sides of the street, so even if drivers are going the opposite direction of the bus, they must stop. Drivers shall not proceed until the school bus resumes motion or the flashing red lights are no longer active.

Drivers should be aware the lights do not turn on immediately when a bus stops, and the amber lights will flash before the red do.

The buses are equipped with cameras, Schulmeister said, and offending drivers can always be prosecuted later. As an added measure, troopers will also be following buses. Schulmeister said this not only helps to ensure drivers are not overtaking the buses, but it's very satisfying to see family members - even their pets - waiting for schoolchildren when they return home.

Parents should feel very confident in leaving their children in the care of the bus drivers and aides, as she recently did a bus inspection and they passed with flying colors.

Other signs around town which designate school zones are equipped with flashing amber lights to make them more noticeable. Schulmeister said drivers need to respect the times listed on those signs, and remember that the 4:30 p.m. is beyond the regular school day but there's plenty of extracurricular activities still happening.

Schulmeister said drivers also need to be aware of kids who might be darting out into the street. If they happen to see a ball, toy or animal out in the street, they should be aware there could easily be a child chasing after their playthings or pets. While there are fines and jail time associated with hitting someone with a vehicle, Schulmeister pointed out there are also civil liability cases, which could cost upwards of $100,000 or more.

As far as general driving safety, Schulmeister also advised drivers should be aware of the speed limit changes in school zones, going from 30 mph to 20, as going 26 in a 20 means a fine of $150, going 30 in the same zone means $190 and it just goes up from there.