Road Rules Around School Buses in Virginia

When it comes to ensuring the safety of our children during their daily commute to school, understanding and following the road rules and etiquette around school buses in Virginia is important. Believe us, we get it – the struggle of leaving for work 20 minutes earlier only to find yourself stuck behind a school bus can be a real steering wheel banger. But in the grand scheme of things, it’s all part of ensuring the safety of nearly a million students who rely on those big yellow buses every day. So, let’s dive into these rules and make our peace with the morning school bus traffic!

Stopping for School Buses-§ 46.2-859

One of the most critical rules involves stopping for school buses. In Virginia, pursuant to Virginia Code § 46.2-859, motorists are required to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop sign when approaching from any direction. This rule applies on all types of roads, including two-lane, multi-lane, and two-way highways if there is no median or barrier. However, if a school bus is on the opposite side of a median or barrier, motorists are not required to stop.

Safe Driving in School Zones-§ 46.2-873

In areas with school zones, drivers must exercise extra caution. Virginia Code § 46.2-873, outlines the requirements of school crossing zones. These zones are designated to protect students as they travel to and from school. Reduced speed limits and other safety measures are often in place to ensure the well-being of children. It’s essential to drive attentively, adhere to posted speed limits, and watch for crossing guards or school patrols.

Avoiding Distractions

Distracted driving is also a significant concern, especially around school dismissal and arrival times. Drivers should be extra alert for children when backing out of a driveway or leaving a garage, driving in neighborhoods with school zones, and when there are no sidewalks in a neighborhood.

Understanding and embracing the road rules and etiquette around school buses in Virginia is not just a matter of compliance; it is a collective commitment to safeguarding our children. So, the next time you find yourself in the company of a school bus on your morning commute, take a deep breath, count to ten, and remember that in this grand symphony of traffic, we are all playing our part to keep our children safe. Together, we can navigate the roads with a little more patience and a lot more heart, ensuring that each school day begins and ends on a safe note.