VDOT urges Virginia drivers to stay alert as more than one million students return to school this month

Richmond, Virginia – As more than one million Virginia students head back to school this month, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is reminding drivers and parents alike to stay alert and prioritize safety on the roads. Students will be commuting on foot, by bicycle, in private vehicles, and by the safest method identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration—the school bus.

While school buses themselves are safe, VDOT warns that children are most vulnerable when walking to and from bus stops, or during loading and unloading. Motorists are urged to remain patient and attentive, particularly in school zones, where children may be more difficult to see due to their smaller size.

“In Virginia, it is illegal to pass a stopped school bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop sign. This means the bus is picking up or dropping off students. All motorists must stop, whether they are approaching from the front in an opposite lane or overtaking it from the rear,” VDOT stressed. Drivers are only exempt if the bus is stopped on the opposite side of a median or barrier, though they are still advised to be cautious of children crossing.

Enforcement and Safety Measures

Some local governments have implemented school zone safety cameras to monitor driver speeds during certain hours. While VDOT does not install these cameras, officials note that the purpose is to slow traffic and protect children. Motorists caught speeding in these areas can face fines.

To keep roads safe, VDOT encourages drivers to follow several key guidelines:

• Expect frequent stops from school buses and slow down accordingly.

• Yellow flashing lights mean the bus is preparing to stop—drivers should reduce speed and be ready to stop.

• Always remain stopped when red lights are flashing.

• Watch for students not only at designated bus stops but also those running late who may cross streets unexpectedly.

• Stay especially alert near schools during morning and afternoon hours.

• Avoid distractions. Refrain from using electronic devices and focus fully on the road.

Tips for Parents and Guardians

VDOT emphasized that parents and guardians play a crucial role in reinforcing safe habits. Families are urged to review key practices with their children:

• Arrive at bus stops at least five minutes early to avoid rushing.

• Wait safely by taking at least five giant steps back from the curb.

• Use sidewalks when possible, and if none are available, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.

• Cross only at intersections or marked crosswalks, checking left, right, and left again before proceeding.

• Follow the instructions of crossing guards and pedestrian signals at all times.

• After exiting a bus, look carefully for traffic before crossing the street.

• Limit distractions such as electronic devices while walking to stay alert to surrounding traffic.

Shared Responsibility for Safety

VDOT officials stress that road safety is a community effort involving drivers, parents, and students. With more children on the roads each school day, attentiveness and patience are critical to preventing tragedies and ensuring a safe start to the school year.

By following the recommended safety tips and respecting school bus laws, Virginians can work together to protect young lives and keep neighborhoods safe.