St. John, IN – Drivers in St. John are being reminded to slow down and stay alert near school buses this week as students continue daily morning and afternoon commutes across Lake County.
According to the St. John Police Department, officers are emphasizing Indiana’s school bus safety laws after sharing a public reminder explaining the difference between yellow and red bus warning lights — rules that apply on local roads and state highways alike.
When a school bus activates yellow flashing lights, drivers should reduce speed and prepare to stop, as the bus is about to load or unload students. Once red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop in all directions, police said.
The only exception is when opposing lanes are separated by a physical barrier or an unpaved median. In those cases, traffic moving in the opposite direction may continue, according to state law.
Police say violations often occur when drivers are distracted or running late, but the consequences can be severe. Indiana law allows for significant fines, points on a driver’s license, and potential license suspension for motorists who illegally pass a stopped school bus.
The reminder follows national guidance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which reports that illegal passing of school buses remains one of the leading dangers faced by students during daily travel to and from school.
St. John police urge drivers to leave extra time for commutes, avoid distractions, and remain patient in residential neighborhoods and along main routes during school hours.
Residents who witness repeated violations near bus stops are encouraged to report concerns to local police.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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