With school's recent opening, the school buses are in full operation. Yet, national statistics, as well as NJ auto insurance claims in regard to school bus pick-up and drop-off accidents, reveal a frightening reality: the negligence of drivers who fail to follow bus safety rules.

“Nobody intends to be the perpetuator of a horrible accident in which the victim is a young kid crossing the street to board the bus,” says NJ auto insurance agent, A Smith. “But negligence comes with a hefty and oftentimes tragic price, so it’s wise to review and follow school bus safety regulations and be consistently on the alert - especially when kids are around. ”

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When the Lights on the School Bus Flash – Motorist Safety Rules

1. Hazard Light Flashing
   School bus hazard lights are positioned at the bottom part of the bus, right near the back lights. Once the school bus has stopped, its hazard lights flash to indicate children are being let on, but will not be crossing the street. This is the signal for motorists to proceed with caution when passing.
   
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2. Yellow Light Flashing
   The yellow lights are located at the top part of the school bus. Approximately two-hundred feet prior to stopping, the bus driver activates the flashing of the yellow lights. This tells other motorists to get ready to stop.
   
   
3. Red Light Flashing
   The red lights are located on the top part of the bus. When the bus’s red lights begin to flash this is a sign for all motorists on both sides of the road to make a complete stop. Usually the driver also extends the bus’s horizontal stop sign along with the flashing red lights to further the warning. Ignoring the red flashing light by passing the bus is not only a criminal offense but something that places the children boarding and getting off the bus at serious risk.  

RELATED: What insurance companies advise when involved in an accident

As the school year moves closer to mid-term, let’s collectively make sure it becomes a safe one!

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Summary: National statistics, as well as NJ auto insurance claims in regard to school bus pick-up and drop-off accidents, reveal a frightening reality: the negligence of drivers who fail to follow bus safety rules.