Know the Rules About Sharing the Road with School Buses

Every day across Texas, millions of children ride school buses to and from school. As a driver, you share the road with these buses, and it’s your responsibility to know the rules that keep children safe. School buses are considered one of the safest forms of transportation, but the danger often occurs when children are getting on or off the bus. That’s why Texas law has strict rules about when you must stop, when you can pass, and how you must approach a bus on the road.

If you misunderstand or ignore these laws, you risk serious fines, license points, and—more importantly—putting children in danger. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about sharing the road with school buses in Texas, including state laws, penalties for violations, and safe driving practices.

Why School Bus Safety Matters

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are approximately 70 times safer than cars when it comes to transporting children. However, most of the serious injuries and fatalities involving school buses happen outside the bus, often when a child is crossing the road.

Children are unpredictable. They may dart into the street unexpectedly or forget to look for traffic. As a driver, it’s critical to be extra alert any time you see a school bus in your lane or nearby. The flashing lights, stop signs, and painted markings on buses are there to protect children—and Texas law requires you to obey them.

Texas Laws for Sharing the Road with School Buses

When You Must Stop

Texas Transportation Code §545.066 requires all drivers to stop for a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. Specifically:

• You must stop if the bus has its red flashing lights activated and/or its stop-arm extended.

• You must stop whether you are behind the bus, approaching from the opposite direction, or on a two-lane road without a median.

When You May Proceed

You may only proceed once:

• The bus driver retracts the stop-arm and turns off the flashing red lights.

• The roadway is clear of children and it is safe to move forward.

When You Do Not Have to Stop

There is one exception: if you are on the opposite side of a divided highway with a physical barrier (such as a median, raised divider, or fence), you are not required to stop for a school bus. Painted lines do not count as a barrier—you must have a physical separation between lanes.

Penalties for Failing to Stop for a School Bus in Texas

Failing to stop for a school bus is a serious offense in Texas. Penalties may include:

• First offense fines: Ranging from $500 to $1,250.

• Repeat offenses: Up to $2,000 in fines and possible suspension of your driver’s license for up to 6 months.

• Injury-related violations: If you strike a child while illegally passing a bus, you could face criminal charges in addition to civil liability.

Importantly, these violations cannot be dismissed by taking a defensive driving course. Texas law ensures the penalty remains on your record to emphasize the seriousness of the violation.

Common Misunderstandings About School Bus Laws

Many drivers think they understand the rules but make mistakes that put children at risk. Common misunderstandings include:

• Painted medians count as divided highways: False. Only physical barriers exempt you from stopping.

• You only have to stop if you’re behind the bus: False. You must stop even when approaching from the opposite direction on a two-lane road.

• It’s okay to go as soon as you don’t see kids: False. You must wait until the driver turns off the lights and retracts the stop sign.

Safe Driving Tips Near School Buses

Beyond following the law, there are practical steps you can take to keep children safe:

• Slow down in school zones and be ready to stop suddenly.

• Stay alert at bus stops. Children may run into the road unexpectedly.

• Keep extra distance behind buses since they make frequent stops.

• Be patient. A few minutes of waiting is worth avoiding tragedy.

School Bus Safety for Parents and Kids

If you’re a parent, teaching your child safe habits around the school bus is just as important as driver awareness:

• Teach children to stand six feet away from the curb while waiting.

• Remind them to wait for the bus driver’s signal before crossing.

• Encourage them to make eye contact with drivers when crossing the street.

• Discourage distractions like headphones or phones when near traffic.

How Accidents Involving School Buses Are Handled

When a driver violates school bus laws and a child is injured, the consequences go beyond fines. The injured child’s family may pursue a personal injury claim against the driver. These cases can include medical expenses, future care needs, pain and suffering, and other damages.

At Carrollton Injury Law, we understand how devastating a bus-related injury can be. If your child has been harmed because another driver failed to follow the law, you may have legal options to pursue justice and financial recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I have to stop if I’m on the other side of a five-lane road?
Yes, unless there is a physical median or barrier. If it’s just painted lines, all drivers must stop.

2. What if the bus driver leaves the stop sign out by mistake?
If the stop-arm and lights are still engaged, you are legally required to stop until the driver deactivates them.

3. Can I pass a bus that’s stopped in a school parking lot?
No. The same rules apply in parking lots and private roads as on public roads.

4. Will passing a school bus affect my insurance?
Yes. A violation will go on your driving record and likely cause your insurance premiums to rise.

5. Can a child’s family sue me if I hit them after ignoring a school bus stop sign?
Yes. Beyond criminal charges, you could face a civil personal injury lawsuit.

Why Knowledge of School Bus Laws Protects Everyone

Knowing and following Texas school bus laws isn’t just about avoiding a ticket—it’s about protecting the lives of children in your community. Drivers who understand these rules help ensure that kids can safely travel to and from school each day.

If your family has been affected by a school bus-related accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Carrollton Injury Law is here to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you and your child deserve. We put the personal back into personal injury law and are committed to helping families across Texas seek justice.