Passing a Stopped School Bus in NC

Know When to Stop: Understanding North Carolina School Bus Laws

With the new school year starting in North Carolina, it’s important for all drivers to refresh their knowledge about school bus laws. Many people aren’t clear on when they need to stop for a school bus, especially on roads with multiple lanes or medians. Not knowing these rules can put children’s lives at risk and lead to serious legal consequences. At Bryon M. Smith, Attorney At Law, we want to help you understand these laws to keep everyone safe.

When Should You Stop for a School Bus?

In North Carolina, you must stop for a school bus that is displaying its stop sign or flashing red lights. The rules change slightly depending on the type of road you’re on. Let’s break it down:

Two-Lane Roads

• What it looks like: A road with one lane going each way.
• What you should do: All vehicles in both directions must stop.

On a two-lane road, there is nothing separating you from oncoming traffic. This means kids might cross the road in front of you, so everyone needs to stop.

Two-Lane Roads with a Center Turn Lane

• What it looks like: A road with one lane each way and a center lane for turning.
• What you should do: All vehicles in both directions must stop.

Even though there’s a turn lane, it’s not a barrier. Kids could still cross any part of the road, so all traffic must stop.

Four-Lane Roads Without a Median

• What it looks like: A road with two lanes going each way, but no physical barrier in the middle.
• What you should do: All vehicles in both directions must stop.

Without a median or barrier, children may cross the road in front of any lane. Everyone needs to stop to keep them safe.

Divided Highways with a Median or Physical Barrier

• What it looks like: A road with two or more lanes each way, separated by a median (like grass or a concrete barrier).
• What you should do: Only vehicles following the bus must stop. Vehicles coming from the opposite direction should proceed with caution.

The median acts as a barrier, so children won’t cross into the oncoming lanes. If you’re driving behind the bus, you must stop. If you’re on the other side, you can keep going but stay alert.

Four-Lane Roads with a Center Turn Lane (No Median)

• What it looks like: A road with two lanes each way and a center turn lane, but no median.
• What you should do: Only vehicles following the bus must stop.

A center turn lane is not a barrier. Kids could cross any part of the road, so everyone needs to stop.

Visual Examples

To help you understand, imagine these situations:

1. Two-Lane Road: A school bus stops, and cars in both directions stop.
2. Four-Lane Road without Median: A school bus stops, and all cars on both sides stop.
3. Divided Highway with Median: A school bus stops, and only the cars behind it stop. Cars on the other side keep going carefully.
4. Four-Lane Road with Center Turn Lane: A school bus stops, and only the cars behind it stop. Cars on the other side keep going carefully.

 

For more information, please visit this page on the NC DPS website. You may also download the NCDOT School Bus Stop Law Card (PDF) from their website.

What Happens If You Pass a Stopped School Bus?

Passing a stopped school bus is a serious offense in North Carolina. Here’s what can happen:

Legal Penalties

• Class 1 Misdemeanor: You could be charged with this, which may include a fine up to $500, possible jail time, and five points on your driver’s license.
• Felony Charges: If you hit someone while passing a stopped school bus, you could face felony charges, which carry heavier penalties.

License Suspension

• First Offense: Your driver’s license could be suspended for at least 30 days.
• Repeat Offenses: Further violations can lead to longer suspensions or even permanent loss of your license.

Safety Tips

• Stay Alert: Pay attention in school zones and residential areas, especially during school start and end times.
• Watch for Signals: Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign mean children are getting on or off the bus.
• Be Patient: It may take a few minutes, but waiting ensures children’s safety.

How We Can Help

If you’re facing charges for passing a stopped school bus, we can help:

• Legal Advice: We’ll explain your rights and options.
• Defense Strategy: We’ll work to reduce penalties or dismiss charges.
• Support Throughout the Process: We’ll guide you every step of the way.

Call the BMS Law Office When YOU Need Help

Understanding when to stop for school buses isn’t just about following the law—it’s about keeping children safe. By knowing these rules, you help protect our community’s kids.