Failure to Stop for a School Bus in New York: Penalties

The flashing red lights, the extended stop sign, the bright yellow bus—it should be obvious when you need to stop. Yet every year, thousands of drivers in New York get ticketed for failing to stop for a school bus. Some genuinely didn't see the signals, others thought they could sneak by, and a few simply didn't understand the rules.

Whatever the reason, passing a stopped school bus is one of the most serious traffic violations you can commit. The penalties are steep, the consequences are lasting, and the safety implications are real. If you've been caught, or if you're just trying to avoid making this costly mistake, here's what you need to know.

When Do You Need to Stop for a School Bus in New York?

The rule is actually quite simple: when a school bus displays flashing red lights and extends its stop sign, all traffic must stop. This applies to vehicles approaching from either direction, regardless of how many lanes separate you from the bus.

You must stop at least 20 feet away from the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and the stop sign is retracted. Only then can you proceed, and you should do so cautiously in case children are still nearby.

This rule applies on virtually all roads, including divided highways. Unlike some other states, New York doesn't make exceptions for physical barriers or medians. If you can see the bus's red lights, you need to stop. It's one of the strictest interpretations in the country, and it catches many drivers off guard.

The only exception is when you're on a divided highway with a physical barrier (not just painted lines) and the bus is on the opposite side. Even then, you should proceed with extreme caution.

Can You Pass a Bus With Yellow Flashing Lights in New York?

Yellow flashing lights are a warning that the bus is preparing to stop. Technically, you can still pass a bus with yellow lights, but it's risky and generally not advisable.

The yellow lights give you time to slow down and prepare to stop. They typically flash for about 10 seconds before switching to red. If you're close enough to the bus when the yellows start flashing, you should slow down rather than try to speed past.

Here's the problem: if those yellow lights turn red while you're alongside or passing the bus, you've just committed a violation. The timing can be unpredictable, and bus drivers don't always give the full warning period. It's much safer to slow down and wait.

Many drivers get ticketed because they misjudge the timing. They think they can make it past before the reds come on, but they're wrong. The few seconds you might save aren't worth the risk of a serious traffic violation.

What is the Penalty For Not Stopping For a School Bus in New York?

The penalties for passing a stopped school bus are among the harshest for any traffic violation. For a first offence, you're looking at:

• A fine between $250 and $400

• Five points on your driving licence

• Up to 30 days in jail (though jail time is rare for first offences)

Five points is significant. It puts you nearly halfway to the 11-point threshold for licence suspension. Combined with any other violations, you could quickly find yourself without a licence.

The fines increase for repeat offences. A second violation within three years can cost between $600 and $750, and a third violation can reach $1,000. Plus, your insurance company will almost certainly raise your rates after any school bus violation.

Many school buses now have cameras that automatically capture violations. You might not see a police officer at the time, but you could still receive a ticket in the mail weeks later. These camera-generated tickets carry the same penalties as those issued by officers.

School Bus Safety Tips for Motorists: Practical Rules That Prevent Tickets

The best way to avoid a school bus ticket is to be extra vigilant in areas where buses operate. Here are some practical tips:

• Know the schedule. School buses run on predictable routes at predictable times. If you regularly drive through residential areas or near schools during morning and afternoon hours, expect to encounter buses.

• Slow down when you see a bus. Even if it's not stopping yet, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. This gives you more time to react when the lights start flashing.

• Don't try to beat the lights. If you see yellow lights, prepare to stop. The few seconds you might save aren't worth the risk of a violation.

• Stay alert for children. Even after the bus moves on, children might still be crossing the street or walking along the roadside. Keep your speed down and watch carefully.

• When in doubt, stop. If you're not sure whether you need to stop, err on the side of caution. It's better to stop unnecessarily than to risk a violation.

If you do get a ticket for passing a school bus, don't just pay it. The consequences are too serious to accept without exploring your options. A traffic lawyer can in NYC often negotiate a better outcome, potentially reducing the charge or getting it dismissed entirely.

At 5 Towns Traffic, we've helped countless drivers navigate school bus violations. We understand the law, we know the courts, and we know how to protect your licence and your future. If you're facing a school bus ticket, reach out to us for a consultation about our traffic ticket lawyer services.