JACKSON ― School bus drivers have a lot to manage when it comes to safety. Making sure children are behaved and securely seated, watching for obstacles along the route and checking for traffic are just a few of the tasks they constantly undertake.
That’s where the Mississippi Association of School Superintendents says motorists can make a difference. During National School Bus Safety Week this Oct. 21-25, MASS encourages everyone to exercise caution in school zones and around school buses and reminds everyone that just 30 seconds out of their commute can save a lifetime.
“Mere seconds count when it comes to children safely getting on or off the bus at scheduled stops,” said Phil Burchfield, MASS executive director. “This short delay in your travels—no matter where you’re going or what you’re doing—is more than worth it when it comes to protecting lives. And when we return to shorter days this fall and winter, it becomes even more important to be vigilant.”
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school buses are among the safest vehicles on the road, with less than 1% of all traffic fatalities involving their passengers. Since school bus transportation by design is safer than traveling by car, the NHTSA adds that children face the greatest risk when approaching or leaving the bus.
Drivers in Mississippi are required to stop at least 10 feet from a school bus when the bus is loading or unloading children. They must not proceed until all children have crossed the street, flashing red lights are no longer activated and the stop sign on the side of the bus is retracted.
MASS also is reminding drivers that there are serious consequences for disobeying the law. In 2011, the State Legislature passed Nathan’s Law, which was named for a 5-year-old Jones County boy who was killed by a driver passing a stopped school bus.
In addition to higher fines, drivers will be charged with a felony if their illegal action results in injury or death. The law also allows school districts to mount cameras on stop arms to help identify offenders.
“Awareness is key when it comes to preventing avoidable accidents,” said Burchfield. “That’s why we’re joining forces again this year with schools, parents, law enforcement agencies and others to promote safe driving practices now and in the future. We encourage everyone to stay focused, know what’s around you and be ready to stop at a moment’s notice to ensure the safety of young Mississippians.”
For more safety tips, visit the NHTSA’s website or the Mississippi Department of Transportation’s Driver Safety Education page. And to learn more about MASS’ award-winning ‘30 Seconds Can Save a Lifetime’ initiative designed to reach as many Mississippians as possible, visit the MASS website.
The Mississippi Association of School Superintendents and the Alliance of Educational Leaders of Mississippi is a non-profit association whose membership is made up of 139 public school superintendents and more than 2,000 public school administrators. Its mission is to provide resources, advocacy, leadership, policy information, training, support, renewal, and public relations services that improve the quality of public education.