Officials call on motorists to share the road responsibly as students head back to school Monday
ROBESON COUNTY — Local school and safety officials are urging motorists to slow down, stay alert and exercise caution as more school buses hit the road and students return to schools across PSRC on Monday, August 25.
“As you travel, please keep an eye out for students near school drop-off and pick-up areas and at bus stops,” said PSRC Transportation Director Dr. Rob Guzman. “Our children are precious cargo, and their safety is something we all share responsibility for.”
Penalties for speeding in school zones and passing stopped school buses
Motorists who speed in school zones or pass stopped school buses can face harsh penalties under North Carolina law.
A driver who passes a stopped school bus could face a $500 fine and five points on their license (NC G.S. 20-217).
Motorists can also incur points on their insurance and face higher rates as a result. A second offense can result in a one year suspension of their driver’s license.
Additionally, if a driver speeds in a school zone, they could be fined $250 (NC G.S. 20-141).
“Robeson County Sheriff’s Office deputies will be out in force this school year enforcing speed limits in school zones and cracking down on anyone who passes a stopped school bus,” said Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins.
“It’s simple, if the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is out — STOP. There are no exceptions unless there’s a physical median. Violators will face hefty fines and possible license loss,” Sheriff Wilkins added.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation explains there are two exceptions to stopping for a stationary school bus.
“The two exceptions are when a highway is divided by a median separation, or in the case of a roadway with four or more lanes with a center turn lane, only traffic following the bus must stop,” according to NCDOT.
Bus Routes
The Public Schools of Robeson County asks parents to exercise patience as bus drivers navigate routes during the first weeks of school and make adjustments to accommodate newly enrolled students. In addition, the district’s transition to a new student information system, Infinite Campus, may temporarily affect bus route planning and schedules.
“Bus routes and stop locations may change during the year as students’ needs shift. Times are estimates and adjustments may be made if necessary,” Dr. Guzman said.
“We ask that students arrive at their stop about 10 minutes early to be ready and waiting when the bus arrives. Being on time helps keep everyone safe—since rushing or running to catch the bus can be dangerous—and it also helps buses stay on schedule so all students arrive at school on time,” Dr. Guzman added.
Construction Impacts to Routes
As parents and other motorists share the roads with school buses on Monday, extra caution is encouraged. Ongoing construction may affect bus routes and arrival times and safety officials are urging motorists to drive patiently and allow a little extra time to help keep students safe.
“Parents should be aware that there are several road construction projects happening in Robeson County by the N.C. Department of Transportation and its contractors. The department advises people to go to its DriveNC.gov website and search under Robeson County to see any ongoing or scheduled road or lane closures for construction or maintenance before taking your school route,” said Andrew Barksdale, a spokesman for NCDOT.
NCDOT officials say the DriveNC.gov traveler-information website, which is mobile-friendly, is a good tool to know what to expect before you take your commute, including whether there are any crashes that have closed highways. Additionally, individuals may visit the ncdot.gov website and search for active projects in Robeson County to learn more.
Bus Safety Tips
NCDOT has released the following safety tips and information related to school bus safety for students:
● Arrive early to your bus stop.
● Never walk behind a school bus.
● Stand at least 6-feet away from the curb.
● Never run or play around a school bus stop.
● Wait until the bus stops completely before getting on or off.
● Never run in the aisle of a school bus and always remain in your seat.
● Stay out of the street while waiting for the school bus.
● Always obey and respect your bus driver.
● Look both ways before crossing the street.
● Do not touch the bus's emergency door or windows.
For more safety tips for motorists and students, visit NCDOT’s website at ncdot.gov.
Last year, 233 yellow school buses traveled 12,677 miles daily to transport 9,043 Public Schools of Robeson County students.
“Our children’s safety comes first. Slow down, pay attention and let’s make sure every student gets to school and home safely,” Sheriff Wilkins said.