Road Rules for School Buses, School Zones and Crossing Guards
With more than a million residents, our roads are normally busy, but school buses add an extra layer of vehicles. While it may be tempting if you’re in a hurry, it is never OK to pass a school bus, speed through a school zone or ignore a crossing guard’s direction.
Fairfax County Public Schools runs more than 1,600 buses daily.
And if you drive, there’s no doubt you will encounter FCPS and private school buses. The rules are pretty simple if you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights.
Drivers must stop in both directions, unless separated from the bus by a median.
#DidYouKnow it’s illegal to pass a stopped #schoolbus that is loading or unloading children? 🚍🛑 School starts on August 28 in #FairfaxCounty – be prepared and know the rules! #BackToSchool #Safety pic.twitter.com/t2sBnaQPH3
— Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) August 16, 2018
Pay attention to school zones, especially where they start and end. Those slower school zone speed limits are there for a reason. Follow the speed limit when the lights are flashing. It’s important to add more time into your commuting schedule so you’re not in a rush and perhaps decide to pass a school bus or speed through a school zone.
We want to ensure Bulldogs are safe at all times! https://t.co/HD6aNsWpDJ
— Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) September 8, 2017
Heeding the whistles and waves of our dedicated crossing guards is yet another way you can ensure the safety of students. Pay attention in crossing guard zone areas as you drive.
Deep breaths, everyone. School’s back. We’re all busy, but let’s slow down & pay attention so our crossing guards get kids to school safely. pic.twitter.com/Uyt5bzwA7e
— Fairfax County Police (@FairfaxCountyPD) September 4, 2017
Here’s a map of all the crossing guard posts in the county:
