When to Stop For a School Bus in Virginia

National School Bus Safety Week, through Oct. 23, is a good time to remind motorists about the dangers (and penalties) for driving past a stopped school bus.

In Virginia, a driver has to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights when approaching from the opposite direction or coming up to the bus from behind.

The car should remain stopped until the school bus begins moving again.

The only time you can drive past a school bus is when there is a divided median and you’re heading in the opposite direction.

Virginia’s law includes stiff penalties, according to law blog HG.org.

A reckless driving statute is a class 1 misdemeanor, with the possibility of jail time, a 6 month driving suspension and a maximum fine of $2,500.
Another law regarding stopping for a school includes six demerit points on your driving record and a maximum fine of $250.

Read more at HG.org.