Ohio School Bus Stop Laws. 2025 Update

Ohio, like other states, has traffic laws to protect the safety of children getting on and off school buses. As a responsible driver, you should familiarize yourself with Ohio school bus stop laws to help reduce school bus crashes. 

If you or your child has suffered injuries in a school bus accident, never wait to seek help from our Ohio school bus attorneys from Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz.

Ohio School Bus Stop Laws. 2025 Update

In Ohio, it’s crucial to be extra cautious around school buses. Here’s a breakdown of the laws:

When to Stop:

• Always stop when a school bus has its lights flashing, regardless of whether you’re approaching from the front or behind. This applies to two-lane roads.
• On roads with four or more lanes, you only need to stop if you’re traveling in the same direction as the bus.
• Stay stopped until the bus moves or the driver signals you to go.

How to Stop:

• Stop at least 10 feet away from the bus.

Penalties:

• Ignoring these laws can result in a hefty fine (up to $500) and even a suspended license.

Remember: These laws are in place to protect children. Always be alert and pay attention when driving near school buses.

When Do You Have to Stop for a School Bus in Ohio?

The primary function of Ohio’s school bus traffic laws (Ohio Revised Code Section 4511.75.) is to establish clear guidelines for when drivers must stop for a school bus.

Firstly, when a school bus stops with red flashing lights on and the stop arm extended, all vehicles in both travel directions must come to a complete stop at least 10 feet away from the bus. This applies on both two-lane and multi-lane roadways, regardless of whether there is a divider or median separating the lanes.

However, if the bus is stopped on the opposite side of a highway with four or more lanes, only the traffic going in the same direction should stop.

Additionally, drivers must not proceed until the bus begins to move or until the driver signals that it is safe to pass. This law excludes peace officers and school crossing guards.

Furthermore, when a school bus is loading or unloading students, it is illegal for drivers to pass the bus. This rule applies to both the same and opposite sides of the road if there is no physical barrier.

Violating these laws can lead to fines of up to $500 and even the suspension of your driver’s license. Suspension periods are stipulated in Ohio Revised Code Section 4510.02.

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Tips for Safe Driving Around School Buses

When driving around school buses in Ohio, these tips will help in adherence to school bus laws as well as avoiding potential auto accidents:

• Avoid speeding, which can endanger the lives of children on the bus.
• When approaching a bus stop, be prepared to stop and watch for children who may be crossing the road to get on or off the bus.
• Be mindful of flashing lights or the stop arm in a school.
• Keep a safe distance to ensure that children have enough space to enter or exit the bus safely.
• Eliminate distractions that may take your attention away from the road.
• Pay attention to signage, such as posted speed limits around school zones.
• Be patient with school buses as they make frequent stops.

Contact Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz for Free Case Evaluation

Ohio school bus traffic laws ensure the safety of students during their daily commute and help regulate motorists’ behavior when they encounter a school bus on the road. In case of an incident involving a school bus, you need to approach the issue carefully to avoid possible legal repercussions. Our legal team can assess the situation and advise on the best course of action. Contact us today, and let us evaluate your case for free.

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Doug Mann

Before establishing Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz L.P.A., Doug Mann, a top Ohio Injury Attorney served as a bodily injury claims adjuster at a major insurance firm. With over 40+ years of experience, Doug’s background has proven invaluable in securing maximum cash settlements for his clients swiftly. Since leaving the insurance industry, Doug has devoted his entire legal career to assisting injured clients during their times of greatest need.

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