“From early morning times of 6:30-8 a.m., motorists must be conscientious of students and buses”.
Advertisement
Before that happens, bus drivers are getting ready – inspecting their buses, getting safety refreshers, and familiarizing themselves with their routes.
Lewis County Sheriff Adam Gissy said traffic from all directions must come to a complete stop when the lights of the school bus are on and the bus is picking up students. These workshops will be held over the next two weeks in several communities.
When you see a bus with its Amber Lights activated, please slow down and prepare to stop. “Children exiting the bus should always stop and look both ways before crossing the street and remain alert to any sudden traffic changes”. It is sometimes best to avoid a school zone during those times, as a detour around a school zone may be safer.
The Patrol has a few reminders for motorists now that buses are back on the roads more regularly.
If your child does walk to school or the bus stop, please take the time to make a few practice trips and point out risky spots.
Children should not go towards the stopped bus until the driver signals it is safe with a head nod.
School buses may be parked now, but soon they roll out for the 2016-17 school year.
Advertisement
Bus drivers are part-time employees, work a split shift and the job doesn’t offer benefits or paid-time off. “In some of these areas there may be a school bus picking up a child”. Motorists should do not forget to stop at least 10 feet back when approaching a school bus from either side while it displays flashing lights and an extended arm, and to not resume driving until the school bus begins moving.
