When do you have to stop for a school bus on Kentucky roads? Here’s what the law says
Do you know when you are required to stop for a school bus in Kentucky, and what could happen if you don’t?
A 2022 survey on illegal school bus passing found 2,334 vehicles unlawfully passed stopped school buses in a single day in Kentucky. Failure to stop for a school bus that’s loading or unloading can result in the injury or death of students.
The National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services survey included 2,267 Kentucky school bus driver participants. The primary survey date listed for the state was June 20, 2022.
Those who violate Kentucky law by passing a stopped school bus are subject to $100 to $200 in fines and/or 30 to 60 days of imprisonment for a first offense.
A subsequent violation within three years results in $300 to $500 in fines and/or 60 days to six months of imprisonment. Six points, at a minimum, will be assessed against the driver’s license of someone convicted of illegally passing a school bus.
When must you stop for a school bus in Kentucky
Here’s when drivers must stop for a stopped school bus in Kentucky:
Two-lane roadway with or without a center turn lane: All traffic from both directions must stop.
Four-lane road with no median separation: Only traffic following the school bus must stop.
Four-lane road with a divided highway and median separation: Only traffic following the school bus must stop.
Four-lane road with a center turn lane: Only traffic following the school bus must stop.
Do you have a question about the rules of the road in Kentucky for our service journalism team? We’d like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
