Drivers Illegally Passing Stopped School Buses

The Cabot School District has a plea on behalf of our students and a stern warning for drivers. If you see a stopped school bus with flashing red lights, you must STOP! If not, you will be prosecuted.

Every day, drivers are putting the lives of children at risk by illegally passing stopped school buses.

The act of illegally passing a stopped school bus with red lights flashing is commonly known as a "stop-arm violation." This refers to the stop-sign shaped "arm" that extends from the left side of the bus when the red lights are activated.

In fact, as of (11/4/2021) the Cabot School District has submitted 60 stop-arm violations for prosecution so far and it’s only the 57th day of school.

Arkansas law now requires drivers to stop at least 30 feet away from a stopped school bus. When red lights on a bus are flashing and the stop-arm is extended, you MUST stop for that school bus in ALL directions. This applies to roads, streets, or highways open to the general public. Drivers are not allowed to start up or attempt to pass again until the bus is back in motion.

The Cabot School District Transportation Department handles close to 100 school bus routes and transports more than 5,000 students twice each day. The district has invested in cameras that capture high quality video and pictures. 

Videos and pictures of drivers violating the stop-arm law are submitted to prosecutors. A driver can be found guilty of a misdemeanor and fined $250 to $1,000 and/or up to 90 days in jail.

For the safety of our children, it is imperative that drivers be attentive and follow the law.