Local Police Crack Down On School Bus Violations, Could Cost You Hundreds

With the new school year just getting underway, police in all of Greater Danbury's local towns and throughout Connecticut will be watching you — especially around those school buses.

The Connecticut State Police issued a press release and the Brookfield Police Department took to social media to alert the public that they will be strictly enforcing school bus violations. Traffic fines involving school buses can carry penalties beginning at $465.

Here's a few of the violations that could hit you hard in the wallet:

Passing a Stopped School Bus

In Connecticut, it is mandatory for motorists to stop for school buses that have their red warning lights activated, whether they are approaching or following a school bus. Drivers who violate that law face a $465 fine for a first offense. Each subsequent offense renders a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 30 days in jail or both. Plus DMV will nail you with 4 points against your drivers license for each conviction.

Speeding in a School Zone

School speed limits in school zones can be established on state roads during school hours when lights to a speed limit sign are flashing. The fines are doubled as well when those lights are flashing.

Safety Tips

The Connecticut Department of Transportation posted some tips when driving now that school is back in session, and buses are out there everyday.

• Slow down.
• Be especially careful when driving on neighborhood streets and around school zones, always expect the unexpected.
• Be alert for youngsters walking to and from school as you back out of your driveway or leave your parking garage.
• We want school children to be safe. Watch for them on bicycles, especially at intersections and driveways. Young bicyclists have a tendency to dart out of driveways without looking for traffic.
• Stop your car when you see lights flashing on a school bus. Red flashing lights indicate that the bus is stopped and students are getting on or off. Don't start driving until the red lights stop flashing. Be aware that a child may dash across the street.

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• Bethel Woman Hits Powerball From Greenwood Ave. Car Wash
• Why Is This Neat CT Neighborhood with Dozens of Homes Abandoned?

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