Springfield, IL – With the school year beginning across Illinois, state police are reminding drivers to slow down in school zones and follow all laws regarding stopped school buses.
According to the Illinois State Police, school zones carry a speed limit of 20 mph between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on school days when children are present. The agency warns that using a hand-held cellphone while driving in these zones is prohibited, with increased fines for violations.
Motorists are also reminded to stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended. On two-lane roads, drivers in both directions must stop, while on multi-lane roads with traffic moving in both directions, only vehicles traveling the same direction as the bus are required to stop. All lanes of one-way streets must come to a halt for a stopped bus.
Officials note that most injuries to students occur outside the bus in what is referred to as the “danger zone,” often when motorists fail to stop. Drivers must also use caution around buses at railroad crossings, with specific restrictions on passing.
The penalty for a first offense of illegally passing a school bus includes a mandatory $300 fine and a three-month suspension of driving privileges.
Authorities encourage parents to discuss pedestrian safety with children, including the importance of using sidewalks, designated crosswalks, and avoiding walking between parked cars.
Additional guidance is available through the ISP’s online School Bus Safety Brochure.
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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