Each day, on average, nearly 800,000 students in New Jersey rely on school buses to get to and from school, according to the Garden State Initiative. That means most drivers encounter school buses regularly — and knowing the rules isn’t optional. Understanding and following school bus safety laws keeps children safe, helps prevent accidents, and protects you from serious legal penalties.
Key Takeaways:
Stop at least 25 feet away from a stopped school bus with flashing red lights — regardless of how many lanes are on your side.
Drivers on the opposite side must stop unless there is a physical divider, in which case you must slow to 10 mph or less while passing.
Violating New Jersey’s school bus laws (N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1) can lead to five license points, fines of $100–$250+, jail time, and higher insurance rates.
Civil and criminal liability may apply if a driver’s negligence causes injury.
Always drive cautiously in school zones, near bus stops, and when children are present — even if the bus lights aren’t flashing.
What Should Drivers Know About School Bus Safety?
You Must Stop When a School Bus Stops on Your Side of the Road
When a school bus stops with its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended, children are getting on or off. Drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus must:
Watch for flashing red lights and stop signs. Flashing red lights and extended stop arms mean children are entering or exiting the bus.
Stop at least 25 feet away. You must come to a complete stop at least 25 feet behind the bus, regardless of the number of lanes. Vehicles behind the first stopped car must also stop, but do not need to maintain a 25-foot gap—just a safe following distance.
Remain stopped until the bus moves. Stay stopped until the bus turns off its red lights, retracts its stop arm, and begins moving again.
These laws exist to protect children crossing the street or walking near the bus. Violating them can lead to fines, points on your license, and even jail time.
Drivers on the Opposite Side Must Stop or Slow Down, Depending on the Road Type
When approaching a stopped school bus from the opposite direction, your duty depends on the type of roadway:
No physical divider. If the road has only painted lines separating traffic (such as a two-lane or undivided highway), you must stop at least 25 feet away from the front of the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and all children are safely across.
Physical divider present. If the road has a median, grass strip, barrier, or concrete divider, you are not required to stop, but you must slow to 10 mph or less while passing the stopped bus and any nearby children.
Even when the law doesn’t require a full stop, drivers should always approach with extreme caution.
What Are the Penalties for Breaking School Bus Safety Laws?
Failing to stop for a school bus in New Jersey is a serious violation under N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1 and can result in:
Fines and Penalties: A first offense carries a fine of no less than $100, while subsequent offenses can reach $250 or more. Judges may also impose up to 15 days in jail or require community service.
License Points: Each violation adds five points to your driving record. Accumulating six points within three years results in a surcharge, and 12 points can lead to license suspension.
Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often raise premiums for school bus violations, especially for commercial drivers.
Civil Liability: If your actions injure a child or pedestrian, you could face criminal charges and a personal injury lawsuit for damages.
Judges treat these offenses seriously because they involve child safety and often impose penalties above the minimum fines.
Additional School Bus Safety Practices
Following the law is just the beginning. Safe driving near school buses also means:
Observing posted speed limits, especially in school zones.
Avoiding tailgating — buses make frequent, sometimes sudden stops.
Reducing speed when yellow warning lights are flashing.
Obeying all traffic signals and crossing guards.
Using caution when passing a moving bus.
Never driving around or passing a stopped bus when children are present, even if red lights are not flashing.
What Are the Consequences of Ignoring School Bus Laws in New Jersey?
Ignoring these laws can have devastating effects beyond fines or points:
Criminal and Civil Penalties: If your failure to stop causes injury, you may face criminal prosecution and civil liability.
Lawsuits: Families of injured children can file personal injury claims seeking compensation for medical expenses, long-term care, and emotional distress.
Severe Outcomes: Collisions involving children often result in significant settlements or verdicts, particularly in cases of permanent injury or death.
Contact Our New Brunswick School Bus Accident Lawyers at RAM Law Today
If you or your child was injured in a school bus accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced New Brunswick school bus accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. (RAM Law) can help you understand your rights and pursue justice. Call 732-247-3600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. With offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, we proudly serve clients across New Jersey.
least 25 feet away from the front of the bus and remain stopped until the red lights stop flashing and all children are safely across.