Every September, New York roads change almost overnight. School buses are back, children are walking and biking to school, and morning traffic gets noticeably busier. In our practice, we also tend to see more crashes involving pedestrians, cyclists, and busy neighborhood streets this time of year. Some result in significant injuries from what initially sounds like a relatively ordinary accident.
When Do Drivers Have to Stop for a School Bus in New York?
New York drivers must stop when approaching a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing, whether they are approaching from the front or rear. This requirement applies on multi-lane and divided highways, as well as private roads and parking lots.
Drivers must stop at least 20 feet away and remain stopped until the bus moves, the lights stop flashing, or they are directed to proceed.
Why Back-to-School Accidents Can Happen So Quickly
What stands out from the cases we handle is how quickly these accidents happen.
A child steps from between parked cars. A cyclist is difficult to see in morning traffic. A driver focuses on the bus ahead and does not notice someone entering a crosswalk. Often, there is no single dramatic event—just a few seconds in which several things happen at once.
Back-to-School Safety for Parents and Drivers
Parents can help by talking with children about their route to school, where they cross, and where they wait for the bus. For drivers, September is simply a good time to remember that the roads are a little different than they were a few weeks ago.
We spend a lot of our time working with people after serious accidents and seeing the effect an injury can have on an entire family. We certainly don’t want to see more of them. With school back in session, being a little more aware of buses, bicycles, crosswalks, and children along the road can make a real difference.
Injured in a Pedestrian, Bicycle or Traffic Accident?
If you or a family member has been seriously injured in an accident in New York, New York Injury Law can help you understand your legal options. Contact our office to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
