North Carolina Enforces Strict School Bus Safety Laws

CLAY COUNTY, N.C. — Clay County Fire and Rescue is reminding drivers of North Carolina’s strict laws regarding stopped school buses to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and families.

State law prohibits passing a school bus when its red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended. The rules vary depending on the road type:

• On two-lane roads, with or without a center turn lane, all traffic in both directions must stop.

• On four-lane roads without a median, all traffic in both directions must stop.

• On divided highways with a median or barrier, only traffic following the bus must stop.

• On highways with four or more lanes and a center turn lane, only traffic following the bus must stop.

Violating these laws can lead to significant consequences, including heavy fines, points on a driver’s license, and increased insurance costs, according to Clay County Fire and Rescue.

Authorities urge drivers to slow down, pay attention, and stop for school buses to protect the community. “Let’s work together to keep our students safe,” the agency stated in a recent social media post.

For more information on school bus safety, contact Clay County Fire and Rescue or visit the North Carolina Department of Transportation website.