Officials remind motorists to watch for kids as schools begin to open

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – It’s that time of the year again.

Kids are heading back to school soon, which means school buses will be out on the roadways in South Central Kentucky.

From the flashing lights, to the bright yellow exterior, school buses have a variety of safety features to keep students and motorists safe.

School officials say it’s important that motorists pay attention to bus stops, because children may be getting on or off of the bus and stepping into the roadways.

If the stop sign arm is out and the red lights are flashing, it is illegal to pass the bus in either direction unless the bus in on a divided highway with a median.

“The whole purpose is to keep the children safe because we never know where the children are going to dart to” said Kathie Belcher, Warren County pupil transportation training and safety manager.

Anytime you pass a bus illegally, you’re endangering the lives of innocent children—a crime officials take seriously.

Warren County bus driver Roger Laird said cars refuse to stop far too often.

“I lay down my horn. I’ve not been able to be quick enough to get their license plate, that’s why I wish they had a camera in the back. It happens about once a month and I lay down my horn. They know I’m upset. I pray every day that the Lord will take care of my kids,” Laird said.

Passing a school bus illegally can carry a penalty of up to a $200 fine or up to 60 days in jail or both.

“We take a report and the county attorney’s office does a report. They are very serious about it,” said Officer Ronnie Ward, Bowling Green Police Department Public Information Officer.

Also, remember school zones will be enforced again soon, and speeding in a school zone can come with a hefty fine.