Passing a stopped school bus that has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended is illegal and dangerous. However, mistakes happen and even the most cautious driver may accidentally fail to stop for a school bus someday. If this happens to you in Pennsylvania, here’s what you need to know.
In short, if you illegally pass a stopped school bus in PA, you will face a stiff fine of at least $250 and get 5 points on your driving record. Your license may also be suspended. You must report the incident to the police within 24 hours.
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Penalties for Illegally Passing a School Bus in Pennsylvania
Mandatory Minimum Fine of $250
If you accidentally pass a stopped school bus in Pennsylvania, you can expect to face some serious penalties. One of the primary consequences is a mandatory minimum fine of $250. This fine is imposed to discourage drivers from disregarding school bus stop signs and to ensure the safety of schoolchildren.
It is important to note that the fine can be higher depending on the circumstances surrounding the violation.
5-Point Penalty on Driving Record
In addition to the hefty fine, illegally passing a school bus in Pennsylvania will result in a 5-point penalty on your driving record. These points can have a significant impact on your insurance rates and can potentially lead to the suspension of your driver’s license.
Accumulating too many points on your driving record can also result in the requirement to attend traffic school or complete other driver improvement programs.
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Possible License Suspension
Passing a stopped school bus is considered a serious offense in Pennsylvania, and as a result, it can lead to a potential license suspension. Depending on the circumstances, the length of the suspension can vary. For a first offense, the suspension can range from 60 days to one year.
Subsequent offenses can result in even longer suspensions, and in some cases, permanent revocation of your driving privileges. It is crucial to remember that the safety of schoolchildren is of utmost importance, and the penalties for illegally passing a school bus reflect the severity of this offense.
How to Report Yourself for Passing a Stopped School Bus
Contact the Police Within 24 Hours
If you accidentally pass a stopped school bus in Pennsylvania, it is crucial to take immediate action and report yourself to the authorities. The first step is to contact the police within 24 hours of the incident. This will ensure that your report is timely and accurate.
By promptly reporting the incident, you demonstrate a commitment to taking responsibility for your actions and ensuring the safety of students.
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Provide Date, Time, Location, Bus Details
When reporting yourself for passing a stopped school bus, it is essential to provide specific details about the incident. This includes the date, time, and location of the incident, as well as information about the school bus involved.
By providing these details, you assist the authorities in their investigation and help them take appropriate action. Remember to be as accurate and detailed as possible to ensure a thorough report.
Failure to Self-Report Carries Stiffer Penalties
It is important to note that failure to self-report passing a stopped school bus in Pennsylvania can result in stiffer penalties. By proactively reporting yourself, you demonstrate your willingness to take responsibility for your actions.
This may be taken into consideration when determining the penalties for your violation. However, if you fail to report yourself, you may face more severe consequences, including higher fines and potential license suspension.
Reporting yourself for passing a stopped school bus is an important step towards rectifying the situation and ensuring the safety of students. By taking immediate action, providing accurate details, and demonstrating your commitment to accountability, you can help prevent future incidents and contribute to a safer community.
Defenses You Cannot Claim
Ignorance of the Law
One of the defenses that you cannot claim if you accidentally pass a stopped school bus in Pennsylvania is ignorance of the law. It is important for all drivers to familiarize themselves with the traffic laws of their state, including the specific rules regarding school buses.
In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to pass a school bus that has its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended. The law is in place to ensure the safety of children getting on or off the bus. Therefore, claiming ignorance of this law will not hold up as a valid defense if you are caught violating it.
Not Seeing the Bus or Its Signals
Another defense that will not hold up in court is claiming that you did not see the school bus or its signals. It is the responsibility of every driver to be aware of their surroundings and to pay attention to the road.
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When a school bus is stopped with its lights flashing and its stop arm extended, it is an obvious indication that children are present. Failing to notice these signals can have serious consequences and putting children’s lives at risk.
Therefore, not seeing the bus or its signals is not a valid excuse for passing a stopped school bus.
Being in a Hurry or Distracted
Being in a hurry or being distracted is not a valid defense for passing a stopped school bus. The safety of children should always be a top priority, and rushing or being preoccupied with other things is not an excuse for endangering their lives.
It is important to plan your time accordingly and eliminate distractions while driving to ensure the safety of everyone on the road, especially children. Therefore, claiming that you were in a hurry or distracted will not excuse passing a stopped school bus.
How to Avoid Illegally Passing a School Bus
Be Cautious When Children Are Present
When driving near a school bus, it is crucial to be extra cautious, especially when children are present. Children can be unpredictable, and their behavior near a school bus can vary. It is essential to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to react quickly if a child unexpectedly crosses the road or runs towards the bus.
Remember, the safety of these young individuals is of utmost importance.
Watch for Flashing Lights and Stop Sign
One of the most important things to remember when driving near a school bus is to watch for flashing lights and a stop sign. School buses are equipped with flashing lights and a stop sign that extends when they are picking up or dropping off children.
Ignoring these signals is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. When you see a school bus with flashing lights and a stop sign, be sure to come to a complete stop and wait until the bus resumes its course before proceeding. This simple action can save lives and prevent accidents.
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Pay Attention to Surroundings
Being aware of your surroundings is crucial when driving near a school bus. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other vehicles that may be sharing the road with you. Avoid distractions, such as using your phone or changing the radio station, as these can take your focus away from the road.
Remember, a momentary lapse in attention can have serious consequences. Stay alert and be prepared to react quickly to any unexpected situations that may arise.
For more information on school bus safety and the consequences of illegally passing a school bus in Pennsylvania, you can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s website.
Conclusion
Passing a stopped school bus with flashing red lights is against the law in Pennsylvania and most other states. If you accidentally do so, you must report it to the police within 24 hours to avoid stiffer penalties.
While defenses like not seeing the bus or being distracted won’t help you avoid fines, being attentive and cautious around school buses can help ensure you never put children in danger.
