Missouri drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses will soon face significantly tougher penalties under a new state law taking effect August 28. As students return to classrooms and college campuses across the state, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is also reminding motorists to watch for school buses, young drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists sharing the road.
Beginning August 28, drivers who illegally pass a stopped school bus can face fines of up to $1,000, five points assessed to their driver’s license and a 90-day suspension for a first offense.
Lieutenant Eric Brown says law enforcement will take a strict approach. “The fines will be more expensive. There’s the potential for escalating punishments for multiple violations. Something the public needs to understand too is definitely going to be zero tolerance now.”
Brown says drivers should also remain alert for children traveling to and from school on foot or by bicycle. “We’re going to see more foot traffic for children that are walking to school, kids that are riding their bicycles to school. Be watchful for that so you can avoid being in a situation where you come in danger or crash into a child that happens to be able to ride their bike in front of you or across the street in an appropriate place.”
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were 871 crashes involving school buses in Missouri last year, resulting in one death and 284 injuries.
The safety message extends beyond elementary and secondary schools. Thousands of college students are returning to campuses across Missouri, bringing heavier traffic to many communities and highways.
Brown says motorists should slow down, avoid excessive speed, and pay close attention to ongoing construction projects on major routes, including Interstate 70 and Interstate 44. “Excessive speed. Be aware of the construction zones are going to be traveling through, as a large part of Missouri roadways are currently under construction on Interstate 70, on Interstate 44, and a lot of these main roads that they travel on to get to and from their colleges.”
Troopers are encouraging drivers to be patient, obey traffic laws, and stay alert as students settle into the new school year.
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