Can You Pass a School Bus Maryland? School Bus Laws Explained
Every school year, the same questions about school bus laws come up for Maryland drivers. Do you have to stop if the bus is on the other side of the road? Can you pass on a divided highway? What happens if you accidentally drive past a stopped school bus?
Knowing when you need to stop, and when you don't, can help you avoid a costly citation and keep children safe around buses and school zones.
When Do You Have to Stop for a School Bus in Maryland?
In Maryland, drivers must stop at least 20 feet from a school bus when its red lights are flashing. Drivers approaching from the opposite direction must also stop unless the bus is on a roadway divided by a physical median.
As a school bus prepares to stop, its yellow flashing lights alert drivers that students may soon be entering or exiting the bus. Once the red lights begin flashing, drivers must stop in these circumstances.
- When you’re traveling in the same direction as the school bus. This applies whether the road has one lane, multiple lanes, or a center turning lane.
- When you’re traveling in the opposite direction on a road without a physical median. You must stop, even if the school bus is on the other side of the road.
- When you’re making a left turn onto a street where a school bus is stopped in the opposite direction. Even if stopping means waiting in the intersection, you must stop and may not drive past the school bus.
These laws are designed to protect children during one of the most unpredictable parts of their day. Children may run to catch the bus, cross the street unexpectedly after getting off, or become distracted by friends and traffic around them. Whenever you see a stopped school bus, slow down, stay alert, and expect the unexpected.
Can You Pass a School Bus Stopped on a Divided Highway?
Yes, in some situations. If you’re traveling in the opposite direction on a divided highway, you don’t need to stop for a school bus on the other side of the physical median.
A divided highway is a roadway where opposing lanes of traffic are separated by a physical barrier, such as a grass median, guardrail, cable barrier, or raised curb. Locally, your daily commute may include ones like Maryland Route 32, U.S. Route 29, Governor Ritchie Highway, Maryland Route 24, or Maryland Route 43.
Keep in mind that this exception only applies to drivers traveling in the opposite direction on the other side of a physical median. If you're behind the school bus or traveling in the same direction, you must always stop for a school bus with red flashing lights and the stop sign arm extended.
What Are the Consequences for Passing a Stopped School Bus in Maryland?
Maryland imposes significant penalties for illegally passing a stopped school bus.
If a school bus camera records the violation, drivers may receive a $250 civil citation. A camera-issued citation doesn’t add points to your driving record. However, if a police officer witnesses the violation, the citation carries a $570 fine and three points on your license.
Beyond the penalties, passing a stopped school bus can put children entering or exiting the bus at serious risk.
What Are School Zone Speed Limits in Maryland?
School bus safety doesn't end once the bus pulls away. Drivers should also be aware of school zone speed limits and pedestrian laws, especially during arrival and dismissal times.
Maryland school zones generally have a 25- to 30-mile-per-hour speed limit during posted times. In any school zone where a school crossing guard is present, the maximum speed limit may be as high as 35 MPH. Regardless of speed limits, you should always drive for the current conditions, stay alert, and accord with posted signs and crossing guards.
School zones can be identified in multiple ways:
- “School zone” or “School ahead” signs
- Reduced school speed limit signs
- Signs with specific hours or “when flashing” instructions
- School crossing signs
- Pavement markings, such as the word “School,” or marked crosswalks
Fines for speeding can increase in school zones. In some instances, fines can be double what they would be outside of a school zone or when speed limit warning lights are not flashing.
Ways to Improve Pedestrian Safety Around Schools
Driving in school zones and in the surrounding neighborhoods requires drivers to stay especially alert to avoid accidents involving children. Look for marked crosswalks, follow the instructions of school crossing guards and uniformed police officers, and be aware that children can come from anywhere to catch a bus and run in any direction when unloading. They can be difficult to see because of their size, and visibility may be blocked by school buses and other vehicles.
Looking for more back-to-school safety reminders? Check out our guide to back-to-school driving safety tips for additional ways to help keep students, pedestrians, and drivers safe throughout the school year.
Who May Be Liable After a School Zone or School Bus Accident?
Determining who is responsible for a school zone or school bus accident isn't always straightforward, particularly when multiple vehicles, pedestrians, or buses are involved.
A driver may be held responsible if the accident resulted from any of the following:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Illegally passing a stopped school bus
- Other negligent behavior.
In some cases, a pedestrian's actions may also be considered. For example, if someone crossed outside of a crosswalk or failed to follow traffic signals, they could share responsibility for the accident.
Because every situation is different, it's important to speak with an attorney who can evaluate the facts of your case and explain your legal options.
Injured in a School Bus or School Zone Accident in Maryland?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a school zone or school bus accident in Baltimore or Harford County, our team can help you better understand your legal options and what next steps to take.