(Stillwater, Okla.) — Stillwater police officers are riding on school buses this month to catch motorists who pass buses stopped for loading and unloading of children, according to a news release.
“Passing loading buses is illegal and quite dangerous, as is speeding in the area of bus stops,” Stillwater Police Cpt. Kyle Gibbs said.
“Our goal is to eliminate these hazardous behaviors,” to increase child safety, Gibbs said.
“Stillwater city ordinance and state statute forbid passing a school bus with red loading signals activated.
“The fine for passing a loading bus is $249,” he noted.
Officers riding on school buses to monitor traffic will notify other police by radio when violations are observed, Gibbs said.
“We will also be monitoring bus stops for speeders and motorists passing buses in loading mode.
“We intend to exercise a zero tolerance approach and issue tickets,” the Stillwater police captain emphasized.
School buses have red alternating flashing lights on the front and back of the bus that must be activated while loading and unloading children, the news release said.
“Stillwater school buses are equipped with STOP signal arms on the driver’s side of the bus.
“We all have to be very cautious as we approach stopped buses,” Gibbs said.
“If you are aware of a bus stop that presents a particular concern, please call the Stillwater Police Department at 405-372-4171,” he said.
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