Know the Rules About Sharing the Road with School Buses
Summer is winding to a close, even though temperatures are still in the triple digits here in Texas. Students will be headed back to school soon if they haven’t already begun class – here’s what you need to know about sharing the road with school buses.
When do I have to stop for a school bus?
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, drivers in Texas must stop before reaching the bus if the bus has alternating flashing red signals visible from the front or back. Drivers may proceed if the flashing lights are deactivated, the bus driver signals that it’s okay to pass, or the bus has resumed movement.
If the road is separated by a physical barrier or intervening space, drivers do not have to stop for a school bus that is operating a visual signal. Note: this does not include a road that is only divided by a left turn lane. This is not considered a physical barrier, and drivers going both directions must stop for school buses.
Be mindful on the road
As school starts, be mindful of more drivers on the road and pedestrians using crosswalks. Maintain a safe distance when following behind school buses, as they make frequent stops to pick up students. Use caution when approaching a railroad crossing. School buses are legally required to stop at them, even if the railroad gate arm is not activated.
And remember, it is always illegal to text and drive.
Have you been injured in an accident?
At Carrollton Injury Law, we put Personal back into Personal Injury Law. Our ultimate goal is to give you the personal attention you need to help make sure that you have a speedy recovery and obtain the absolute best compensation possible. At Carrollton Injury Law, you are not just a number. We believe that consistent communication leads to a more efficient and more successful financial recovery in the end. We want to be continually informed about your treatment for painful injuries, your limitations in life due to someone else’s negligence, your lost wages, your disfigurement or scarring, your permanent impairment, your pain and suffering in the past and future, etc. All of this information is vital to the successful handling of your personal injury claim.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury as a result of an accident, please call or text Carrollton Injury Law today at 972-787-0325 for a FREE injury claim evaluation. We look forward to showing you how we put Personal back into Personal Injury Law.
