Attention Maryland Drivers: Key Reminder to Stop for School Buses as Schools Reopen!

As schools in Maryland begin to reopen this week and next, transportation officials are urging motorists to exercise caution around school buses.

“It’s crucial for all drivers to remain vigilant and aware of school buses, pedestrian crossings, and designated bus stops,” stated Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich during his weekly press briefing.

Chrissy Nizer, the administrator of the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, emphasized to WTOP that drivers must pay attention to the flashing red lights and extended stop arms of school buses while they are stopping to pick up or drop off children.

For those who find themselves behind a school bus, it is important to maintain a safety buffer of at least 20 feet from the stopped vehicle.

Nizer pointed out that most people are aware that they must stop when traveling in the same direction as a school bus. However, this requirement also applies to multilane roads.

“Even on a road with three or more lanes, you are obligated to stop. It doesn’t matter which lane you’re in; regardless of your intentions, stopping is mandatory,” she explained.

Additionally, drivers must halt when a school bus with its stop arm extended is approaching from the opposite direction, unless a physical median separates the roadways.

“If there’s a grass median, concrete barrier, or guardrail, then you may not need to stop. Without one of those distinctions, however, you are required to stop,” Nizer clarified.

Motorists who ignore the stop signals of a school bus could face significant fines. An automated citation can lead to a civil fine of $250, while those stopped by law enforcement could receive a hefty $570 ticket along with three points added to their driving record.