A new bill recently introduced in Suffolk County would allow school bus stop arms to be equipped with cameras. Lawmakers hope that the cameras would deter drivers from passing school busses when the stop arms are deployed. Additionally, the drivers who have been caught on camera passing the school bus when the stop arm sign is up would be subject to high fines.
A new bill recently introduced in Suffolk County would allow school bus stop arms to be equipped with cameras. Lawmakers hope that the cameras would deter drivers from passing school busses when the stop arms are deployed. Additionally, the drivers who have been caught on camera passing the school bus when the stop arm sign is up would be subject to high fines.
Drivers coming from all directions are required to stop at least 20 feet away from the bus when a school bus puts out its stop sign. This is to signal that children are either getting onto or off the bus. A first time offender of the infraction could be charged up to a $250 fine and in some instances, up to thirty days in jail. A second violation within a three year period could result in fines of $600-$750 and/or up to 180 days in jail. Three violations in a three year period could result in up to $1,000 in fines, 180 days jail time, and a 6 month license revocation.
According to some statistics, 50,000 cars pass school buses in New York each day with 1,352 tickets being issued last year for the offense. In the last four years, 35 children have been hit by cars passing stopped school busses. Proponents of the law include American Traffic Solutions (the organization that operates most of the Red Light programs nationwide).
If you have been charged with the infraction of passing a school bus, contact an experienced traffic attorney who will ensure that your rights are protected. Call McGuire & Pelaez at (631) 348-1702.
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