Reminders for a safe school year

Another school year has begun and although we say this every year it is worth saying again.
Now that school has started don’t forget to be mindful of safety when driving.
School buses are on the road again and many youngsters will also be heading back to class either by walking or riding bicycles.
The Minnesota State Patrol reminds drivers that Minnesota state law requires all vehicles to stop for school buses when the bus driver activates the flashing lights and has the stop-arm fully extended.
Motorists also must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus that is displaying red flashing lights and an extended stop-arm.
Motorists driving in the opposite direction on a divided highway are not required to stop.
Drivers who violate the law face a $500 fine. They also can face more severe criminal charges for passing a school bus on the right, passing when a child is outside the bus, or injuring or killing a child.
Motorists also need to keep alert and be aware of youngsters walking or riding bicycles to school.
Bus riders also need to be aware of following safety precautions.
Again, the State Patrol reminds bus passengers than when getting off the bus to look to make sure there are no cars are passing on the shoulder. Wait for the bus driver to signal that it is safe to cross the road. When crossing the street to get on the bus or to go home, make eye contact with motorists before proceeding.
The rules of safe driving are always important but especially when there are school buses on the road and students walking or riding bikes to school. And always remember that the best way to be aware of your surroundings at all times is to put those distractions away, especially cell phones.