Officials urge drivers to use caution when driving near school buses

WICOMICO COUNTY, Md. – The summer flew by, and the kiddos are getting ready to head back to school, which means Wicomico County school buses will be back out on local routes.

Director of transportation services, Desmond Hughes said keeping your eyes on the road, especially when traveling near buses, helps keep drivers and kids on the bus safe.

“We continue to see an increase in distracted driving by the motorists, where it’s typically by electronic devices, and other moves that can take motorist’s eyes off the roadway,” said Hughes.

School buses have to stop frequently, and when those lights flash and the arm extends, Hughes said it’s imperative you obey the commands, or else you’ll face a fine.

“Once the bus comes to a complete stop and when the red lights and stopping arm are activated, that’s when all traffic around that school bus has to come to a complete halt,” said Hughes. “Otherwise, there are severe fines and consequences for violating that school vehicle’s red lights.”

And Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis said those fines are hefty.

“If we can identify the driver, the driver will get a $1000 fine. If we cannot identify the driver, the fine goes to the registered owner of the vehicle,” said Sheriff Lewis.

He added that patrols will be out following buses, to enforce those rules.

“When you’re transporting children to and from school to their homes, we’ve got to maintain a high level of vigilance, to make sure they get there safely,” said Sheriff Lewis.