Traffic Laws Concerning Stopped School Buses

🚍 When You Must Stop for a School Bus in Texas

  According to Texas Transportation Code § 545.066:

✅ You must stop when:

• A school bus stopped on the road.
• The bus is displaying flashing red lights.
• The stop sign arm is extended.

This applies whether you are:

• Behind the bus
• Approaching from the opposite direction on a two-lane road

🛑 When You Do NOT Have to Stop

You do NOT have to stop if:

• You are on the opposite side of a divided highway (e.g., there is a physical median like a concrete barrier or grassy strip separating lanes).

🚧 Simply having a turning lane or painted line does not count as a divided highway. There must be a physical barrier.

Penalties for Violating School Bus Stop Laws in Texas

• Minimum fine: $500
• Maximum fine: $1,250 for a first offense
• License suspension: Possible for multiple offenses
• Criminal charges: If someone is injured, the penalties can become much more severe

🔒 Safety Tip:

• Always err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure whether to stop, stop anyway. Children can be unpredictable, and it’s better to be safe.
• Would you like a visual diagram to help explain this better?