The Southborough Police Department posted the following reminder on its Facebook page recently:
Over the past couple of weeks, we have received several complaints of vehicles passing school buses while their flashing red lights are on, and the “STOP” sign is out. A reminder to our residents and commuters: You must bring your vehicle to a complete stop when the bus has its “STOP” sign out & red lights flashing. A child may be approaching the bus from the same, or opposite side of the road. If you see flashing yellow lights on an approaching school bus; please slow down and come to a complete stop.
Failure to stop for a school bus is a violation of Mass General Law Chap. 90, Section 14A, and shall be punished by a fine of not less than $250. A second offense shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500.
Thank you for your attention to this, and please drive safely!
(Photo posted to Flickr by waitscm)
Just the other day I saw a truck barely miss hitting the car in front of him when they stooped for the school bus. He had to swerve into the ditch! Get off the phone, pay attention, and obey the law!
Sadly it isn’t just happening on the streets. I see it all the time at the elementary school where vehichles will drive right past the school mini vans that are dropping off special needs students or preschoolers. Parents ignore the lights and have even ignored the van driver who gets out to make sure people stop.
People need to slow down, put down the phones and pay attention.