Pinellas County, FL – Drivers across Pinellas County are being reminded today to stop for school buses displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, a requirement Florida law enforces regardless of travel direction in most cases.
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, motorists must stop when a school bus is loading or unloading children unless they are traveling in the opposite direction and a physical barrier separates the roadway. Acceptable barriers include a raised concrete median, a physical divider, or an unpaved space measuring at least five feet wide.
Deputies say confusion about the law often leads to dangerous violations, especially during morning and afternoon school hours when buses are active throughout Pinellas County neighborhoods.
Failure to stop when required comes with steep penalties. Drivers face fines starting at $265, which increase to $465 if a vehicle passes on the side where children enter or exit the bus. Violators also receive four points on their driver’s license and must complete mandatory driver education, according to the sheriff’s office.
Law enforcement officials say deputies are routinely monitoring school bus stops across Pinellas County as part of ongoing child safety efforts. The enforcement applies countywide, including residential streets and multi-lane roads without proper barriers.
Officials stress the law exists to prevent serious injuries and fatalities involving children crossing roadways to board or exit school buses.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down in school zones, remain alert during peak bus hours, and understand when stopping is legally required.
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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