STOP! For Flashing Bus Lights & Stop Signs

Colorado House Bill HB25-1230

The Greeley-Evans School District 6 Transportation Department prides itself on being a safe, reliable, and professional service for students and staff. The Transportation Department provides school bus transportation for district boundary students in Greeley and Evans to school sites, athletic events, and non-public programs and field trips by professional, well-trained, and experienced employees. The team's goal is to provide the best riding experience available. 

Please be informed on the school bus run-by laws so that we can educate our community about bus and student safety. 

• Stopping Requirements: Drivers must stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, regardless of the direction of travel.
• Exception: The only exception is if there is a physical barrier, such as a raised or depressed median, separating the lanes of traffic. 
• What Doesn't Count: Painted lines or painted medians are not considered a physical barrier, and you must stop in these situations. 
• Distance: You must stop at least 20 feet before reaching the stopped school bus. 
• Duration: You must remain stopped until the bus' flashing red lights are turned off. 
• Caution: Even if there is a physical barrier, drivers should still exercise extra caution when passing a school bus.

What's New: 

Previously, vehicles traveling in the opposite direction on roads with only a painted median could proceed with caution. That is no longer allowed. Under the updated law, drivers in both directions must stop unless the road is divided by a physical barrier or a raised/depressed median. A painted median no longer qualifies as a divided roadway (HB25-1230). 

Understanding School Bus Signals:

• Flashing yellow amber lights serve as a warning that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. 
• Vehicle drivers should slow down and be prepared to stop.
• Flashing red lights:
  • Vehicles MUST stop.
  • Stop at least 20 feet away fro the bus when red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
  • Remain stopped until the lights stop flashing, the stop sign is withdrawn, and the bus starts moving again. 
• Never pass a stopped school bus from behind. It is illegal and extremely dangerous. 
• Slow down in the mornings and afternoons when buses are picking up and dropping off students. 
• Be especially alert in school zones, neighborhoods, and near parks, where children may be walking or biking. 

Penalties for Violation

• District Bus Drivers will write-up all run-bys. Some buses use video cameras. 
• All write-ups are sent to the appropriate police departments. 
• No Video
  • Documented
  • Warning Letter
  • Citation/fine
• Video
  • Citation/Fine
  • Penalties for violations: Illegally passing a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended is a serious offense in Colorado. Penalties can include:
    • Fines starting around $250 for a first offense and increasing for subsequent violations within a five-year period. 
    • Points against your driver's license. 
    • Mandatory court appearances. 
    • Potential jail time in cases with aggravating actors or repeat offenders.