Can I Just Pay the Ticket on a School Bus Stop Arm Violation in Ramsey County, Minnesota?
If you think a school bus stop arm violation in cities like St. Paul, Roseville, Maplewood, Little Canada, or White Bear Lake is just a minor traffic ticket that you can pay and forget about, think again. This is not a simple traffic offense like running a stop sign or speeding. In Minnesota, these violations are typically treated as criminal offenses, carrying serious consequences. Depending on the charge, you could face penalties including up to 90 days in jail for a misdemeanor or up to one year for a gross misdemeanor. If you find yourself facing a stop arm violation charge in Ramsey County, it is crucial to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
With the hustle and bustle of city traffic—cars, trucks, buses, pedestrians, and bystanders—it’s easy to overlook the flashing lights of a school bus. However, if you're driving in stop-and-go traffic and miss the bus's flashing red lights and extended stop sign, you could be committing a serious crime, not merely a traffic violation.
“Remember, this is not just a traffic ticket. Law enforcement can arrest you for this violation.”
What is a School Bus Stop Arm Violation?
In Minnesota, drivers are required to stop at least 20 feet away from any school bus that is displaying its stop sign and flashing red lights. You must not proceed until the school bus driver retracts the stop arm. It is also illegal to pass a school bus on the right side when its amber lights are flashing, indicating that the bus is preparing to stop.
Could I Be Charged with a Crime?
Yes, a school bus stop arm violation is more than just a traffic ticket or speeding citation. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be facing misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor charges, both of which can lead to jail time.
Misdemeanor Charges
If you fail to stop and continue driving past a school bus, you could face misdemeanor charges, which may result in:
A criminal conviction
Up to 90 days in jail
Up to a $1,000 fine
Gross Misdemeanor Charges
More serious offenses, such as passing on the right when the bus’s stop arm is extended or driving past the bus while a child is outside, can result in gross misdemeanor charges. Penalties for these charges may include:
A criminal conviction
Up to 1 year in jail
Up to a $3,000 fine
Additionally, in certain situations, you could face a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
“School buses in Ramsey County are equipped with advanced cameras to document violators.”
Seek Legal Assistance
If you are facing charges for a school bus stop arm violation in St. Paul or any neighboring city in Ramsey County, understanding your rights and the potential consequences is vital. Contact an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney for guidance and representation.
Jack Rice is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, former CIA Officer, and former prosecutor. He is also the founder of Jack Rice Defense, a boutique criminal defense firm based in St. Paul, Minnesota. For a free confidential consultation, reach out to Jack Rice Defense at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
About Jack Rice Defense
Jack Rice is a nationally recognized and award-winning criminal defense lawyer, named among the Best Criminal Defense Lawyers of 2024 and a Minnesota Super Lawyer for 2023. He has received numerous accolades, including the Minnesota Attorney of the Year Award for 2021 and the Professional Excellence Award from the MSBA for 2020. With decades of experience, he has successfully represented thousands of clients facing serious criminal charges, including sex crimes, domestic assault, DWI, and more. If you’re in need of skilled legal representation in Ramsey County, don’t hesitate to contact Jack Rice Defense.