As students return to the classroom for the new academic year, PennDOT District 10 in Indiana is urging drivers, parents and students to prioritize school bus and pedestrian safety.
The safety reminder aligns with National Back to School Safety Month, observed throughout August to help prevent crashes and keep children safe during their daily commute.
PennDOT District 10 Executive Brian Allen emphasized that simple driving adjustments can significantly improve safety around school routes.
“Smart choices such as slowing down in school zones, stopping for school buses and staying distraction‑free are some of the most important steps we can take to protect students on their way to and from school,” Allen said.
Under Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law, drivers approaching a school bus with red lights flashing and an activated stop arm must stop at least 10 feet from the bus. Motorists traveling from all directions are required to stop unless they are on the opposite side of a divided highway clearly separated by a physical barrier, such as a grassy median, guide rail or concrete barrier. Flashing yellow lights signal that a bus is preparing to stop, requiring approaching drivers to slow down and prepare to stop.
In addition to bus laws, drivers must reduce their speed to 15 mph when traveling through school zones. Officials advise motorists to remain alert for children walking or riding bicycles near roadways during school hours.
PennDOT also provided safety guidelines for parents and students waiting at bus stops. Recommendations include arriving at the stop early, standing well back from the roadway, crossing in front of the bus within clear view of the driver and never attempting to retrieve dropped items near the vehicle.
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