Stop for School Buses or Face Heavy Penalty

Ada, MN — School is back in session today in Minnesota and law enforcement is pleading with motorists to please pay attention, watch for children, and take note that the school buses are back on their routes. Over the last couple of years, there has been a dramatic increase in school bus stop arm violations, which is often due to drivers not paying attention or being distracted. Regardless of the reason, the penalties are getting stiffer. Along with a $500 fine, Ada Interim Police Chief Steve Hager says you WILL spend at least a weekend in jail.

State law requires all vehicles to stop for school buses when the bus driver activates the flashing lights and has the crossing arm fully extended. Motorists must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus that is displaying red flashing lights or a stop arm when approaching from the rear and from the opposite direction on undivided roads.

In 2019, there were 1,176 citations issued across the state for school bus stop arm violations.