School Buses Return Aug. 10: Drivers Reminded of Florida’s School Bus Stopping Laws
With students returning to classrooms across Manatee County on Monday, Aug. 10, local law enforcement is reminding drivers to brush up on Florida’s school bus stopping laws before the morning commute gets busier.
Traffic is expected to increase significantly as thousands of students head back to school, making it more important than ever for motorists to stay alert around school buses and in school zones.
Drivers must stop for a school bus displaying its stop signal and flashing red lights on all two-lane roads. On multi-lane roads divided only by a painted yellow center line or a center turn lane, traffic traveling in both directions is also required to stop.
The only exception is on divided highways where opposing traffic is separated by a raised median or an unpaved median at least five feet wide. In those cases, only vehicles traveling behind the school bus must stop, while traffic on the opposite side of the divided highway may continue.
Officials are encouraging drivers to use the remainder of the week to enjoy lighter summer traffic while preparing for longer commute times once school resumes. Motorists are also reminded to slow down, eliminate distractions, and remain patient around school buses to help keep students safe throughout the school year.
