In A Hurry? Don’t Pass A School Bus In Michigan
I was scrolling on Facebook the other day and came across a rather terrifying image. It wasn't scary because it looked like a horror movie, but what the photo implied could have happened was truly scary.
A mother from Plainfield posted a photo of her mailbox destroyed and in pieces, claiming
"a car went around the [school] bus on Coit and took out my mailbox and was inches from hitting my son."
If the destruction of this mailbox is any indication of what could have happened to her kid, it shows people are still not respecting the "STOP" sign on the school bus.
👇IS IT LEGAL OR ILLEGAL? FAQ'S ABOUT MICHIGAN LAWS👇
So, what are the laws surrounding school bus stops and what happens when the worst-case scenario were to take place?
School Bus Stop Sign Laws
I'll make this very simple to start: passing a school bus that has its stop sign out and flashing is a terrible idea. It doesn't matter how much of a rush you're in or if you think you can make it before the sign is fully out, just don't do it. This applies to both directions. It's an unnecessary risk.
READ MORE: New Michigan Law Protects Moms’ Right to Public Breastfeeding |
Michigan law (Section 257.682) states that :
- No car can pass while the bus' red lights are flashing
- Cars must stop 20 feet from the school bus with red lights flashing
To ensure that drivers who break these rules are held accountable, buses may be equipped with a stop-arm camera system.
Penalties
Passing a school bus that is stopped opens drivers up to "civil infractions" ranging from fines between $100 to $500. Causing an injury can lead to a $1000 fine and up to a year in jail. Killing someone while these lights are on is punishable by $7500 and/or up to 15 years in prison.
If this was too much to read, just stick to the main point: waiting 30 seconds for the school bus isn't worth the fine or potential prison time. Be considerate and mindful of your surroundings.
Is It Illegal? Answering Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan Laws
Gallery Credit: Wendy Reed