Police remind drivers of back to school bus safety in Maryland

Police say they are stressing bus safety just in time for back to school, in Maryland.

Maryland State Police say, on Thursday, they are reminding drivers of bus safety and regulations in time for students heading back to school. Troopers say extra patrols are scheduled on school bus routes, and they will be targeting those who are driving unsafely around buses, or ignoring flashing lights when a bus is stopped.

Here is a list of tips MSP is sharing with the public:

–  When driving behind a school bus, make sure to allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind another car. This will give you more time to stop once the yellow lights begin to flash.

– Never pass a bus from behind or from either direction if you're on an undivided road if it is stopped to load or unload children. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.

– If yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended, you must stop.

– Make sure you've stopped far back enough to allow children to safely enter and exit the bus. The area 10 feet surrounding a school bus is the most dangerous for children.

– Pay attention; children can be unpredictable and tend to ignore hazards.

Authorities wish everyone a safe and fun 2017-2018 school season.