Recently the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office has received complaints of motorist failing to stop for school buses stopped to load or unload children. Maryland motor vehicle law requires motorists to stop and remain stopped for school vehicles which are stopped with alternately flashing red lights activated.
A violation for “Failure to stop for a Stopped School Vehicle Operating Alternately Flashing Red Lights” carries a $570.00 fine with three (3) points. “Failure to Remain Stopped for a Stopped School Vehicle Operating Alternately Flashing Red Lights” carries a $570 fine with two (2) points. If motorists, approaching a stopped school vehicle with alternately flashing red lights, are unsure if a stop is required use good judgment, err on the side of safety and stop.
Remember the safety of the children is of the utmost importance. From now through the end of the school year, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Traffic Safety Unit will conduct several school bus traffic safety initiatives. Sheriff Timothy K. Cameron requests motorist be vigilant on the roadways and look for school buses which are stopping to board or discharge students. With the communities help we can ensure our children get to school and back home safely.
For more information or questions regarding traffic safety, please contact Sergeant Michael Butler, St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Traffic Safety Unit, at (301) 475-4200 x9006 or mike.butler@stmarysmd.com
