The North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP) Northeast Region is implementing the Trooper On A Bus program in the Northeast Region this week. The NDHP is partnering with school officials to enhance traffic safety on local bus routes. This effort will enhance the enforcement of related traffic laws and increase public awareness regarding the dangers created by motorists who fail to stop for school buses when children are loading and unloading. The program will be implemented on select dates on various bus routes throughout the region. A State Trooper will be riding along on a school bus to observe motorists’ activities. If a violation occurs, the trooper will radio the information to another trooper in a nearby patrol vehicle. A traffic stop will be initiated and enforcement action will be taken.
North Dakota law requires that if a stopped school bus is displaying alternating flashing red lights or a stop sign control arm, a driver of a vehicle meeting or overtaking the stopped bus from either direction on the same roadway (front or back) must stop before reaching the school bus. Motorists may not proceed until the red lights are deactivated, the bus driver signals them to proceed, or the bus resumes motion. Failing to stop as required for a school bus is a $50 fine with six points being assessed to the violator’s driving record.
Bus drivers have the authority to document violations of motorists overtaking or passing their buses while the overhead red stop lamps are activated. These reports are given to local law enforcement, who then follow up and take enforcement action based upon the complaint.
Specific equipment and traffic regulations are in place to provide safety for children inside, as well as in the nearby vicinity, of a school bus. Lighting, reflectors, mirrors, stop arms, emergency exits, compartmentalized cushioned seats and school bus yellow paint are all standard safety features. North Dakota school buses were involved in 186 traffic crashes from the beginning of the 2007 school year through the end of the 2010 school year. These crashes resulted in 63 injuries and 0 deaths. Data provided by the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction indicates that none of these injuries were sustained by students on the buses.
The NDHP encourages parents to remind their children to always be wary of vehicle traffic. Most importantly, motorists should drive with the understanding that children are unpredictable and often unaware of the risks associated with certain actions. The NDHP asks motorists to exercise caution when around schools, buses and during periods before and after school. Remember, “Stop on Red, Kids Ahead!”
