After Indiana Bus Stop Tragedy, NHTSA Speaks Out

ACROSS INDIANA — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is urging motorists to drive safely after what they call a deadly week for kids at bus stops, including three who were killed and one critically injured in a Rochester, Indiana bus stop crash. The NHTSA also wants drivers to remember these rules about school bus safety:

Tips for Motorists:

• Be alert and slow down when driving in neighborhoods with school zones.
• Watch for children walking, playing or assembling near bus stops. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking for traffic.
• Obey the school bus laws in your State, as well as the "flashing signal light system" used for school buses: According to the NHTSA, yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. Motorists should slow down and prepare to stop their vehicles. In addition, red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop their cars and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop-arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving before they can start driving again, NHTSA said in a release.

Tips for caregivers and students:

• Arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. Stand at least three giant steps (six feet) away from the curb. The bus stop is not a place to run or play.
• When the school bus arrives, wait until the bus comes to a complete stop, the door opens, and the driver says it’s okay before approaching the bus door. Use the handrails to avoid falling.
• Never walk behind a school bus. Walk on a sidewalk or along the side of the street. Cross the street in front of the bus with at least five giant steps (10 feet) between the front of the bus and you. Make eye contact with the bus driver before crossing to make sure the driver can see you.
• If you drop something near the school bus, like a ball or book, tell the bus driver right away. Do not try to pick up the item, because the driver might not be able to see you.

More coverage from Patch:

• Parents Of Child Hurt In Bus Stop Crash 'Focused On His Recovery'
• Children Identified In Indiana Bus Stop Crash, Woman Arrested

Concern for the safety of students is spreading nationwide and it’s imperative that you take time to spread the word to your friends, families, neighbors, and followers, the NHTSA said in a release, adding that young lives depend on you driving safely.

More information: NHTSA.gov/school-bus-safety

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