National school bus safety week - WXOW.com

LA CROSSE, Wis (WXOW) – More than 25 million kids ride the big yellow bus to school each day.

This week is National School Bus Safety Week, which serves as a reminder to parents, students, and the community to keep school bus safety at the forefront.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says students are 70 times more likely to get to school safely when taking a bus instead of a car.

Buses are designed to include safety features, such as red flashing lights and stop sign arms. Laws also protect students by making it illegal for drivers to pass a bus while dropping off or picking up students.

Sergeant Tom Walsh of the La Crosse Police Department says they have been getting many calls to complain about drivers not abiding by school bus laws.

“The lighting on the buses is no different than traffic lights. When you see those yellow-amber lights come on, it means that you need to slow down and be prepared because you’re going to be coming to a stop,” said Walsh.

“The school buses will then illuminate those red lights and as soon as those red lights go on, it is your responsibility to stop.”

A police officer does not have to be present, the bus company can report your license plate and car description and the local police departments can and will issue citations.

Here are a few tips to keep kids safe at the bus stop.

Leave home on time, because running after a bus is very dangerous.
Have kids walk in groups if possible as they will be more visible to drivers.
If you meet your child at the stop, wait on the side where the bus drops them off…as excited kids easily forget safety rules.