Sheriff's Department offers reminders of bus safety laws

As the school year begins, the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office would like to offer another friendly reminder to the public to be cautious when driving during school hours.  Make sure you know the laws, and share this information/post with your friends.

1. It is illegal to pass a bus from the rear when the amber or red lights are flashing.
 
2. When approaching a bus from the front, drivers should proceed cautiously at no more than 25 miles per hour while the ambers are on, and be prepared to stop.
 
3. Drivers must stop a minimum of 15 feet away from the bus when the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is out.

4. The penalty for violating school bus laws is an automatic driver's license suspension in addition to a fine.

It won't matter that you are late for work if a child is injured or killed.

School bus safety laws are designed to keep our children safe, and it is everyone's responsibility to do their part in knowing and abiding by these laws.

For more information on school bus safety laws, visit http://www.iowadot.gov/schoolbus/requiredstopping.html or call the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office at 563-382-4268.