Thousands of school buses are on the roads every day throughout South Carolina. Since buses frequently stop to load and unload students, it is uncommon for impatient drivers to speed around them. However, not only could passing a stopped school bus result in children suffering serious and fatal injuries, but it is also punishable by harsh criminal penalties. The state implemented these traffic laws to protect students on their way to and from school.
South Carolina School Bus Laws
South Carolina law requires drivers to stop for a school bus when traveling on any highway with two lanes, no matter what side of the road you drive. Before coming to a stop, the school bus will flash yellow lights. You can only pass if the bus begins moving again.
On the other hand, when it comes to multi-lane highways with four or more lanes, motorists driving behind a school bus must stop. Drivers approaching a bus on the other side of the road do not have to stop but urged to proceed with caution.
A first offense for failing to stop for a school bus can lead to a maximum fine of $500 or a jail sentence of up to 30 days. If a person suffered an injury, then a conviction can result in imprisonment for up to one (1) year and a maximum fine of $10,000. If a person dies, a conviction carries a maximum prison term of five years and a fine of up to $25,000.
Contact Our Firm Today if You Have Been Charged with a Traffic Offense
Drivers should always be alert and watch students as they enter or exit the bus because they frequently run across the road. In addition, many school buses are now equipped with video cameras, which means charges can be issued based on video recordings.
If you have been charged with a traffic offense in Lexington or within the surrounding area, contact the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC today at (803) 359-3301 and schedule a free consultation. Get more than 15 years of legal experience on your side!