Most Common Question Involving a Stop Arm Violation in Minnesota: Thoughts by Jack Rice Defense
If you are on a divided road and there is a school bus stopped with its red lights flashing and its stop arm is extended, do I have to stop? The answer is, it depends. Yes, we hate that answer too but this is the law and the law is never simple. Its also important to know because if you get charged, it is a crime. If you have been charged, make sure you consult with an experienced Minnesota school bus stop arm violation defense attorney.
“If you get charged, this is not a traffic ticket. This is a crime.”
A Divided Roadway
If you are on the opposite side of the road from the school bus, in other words facing each other, you may need to stop unless there is a divided roadway. Here are the key points for divided roadways:
If there is a median or physical barrier like a median or guardrail between the lanes, you do not need to stop.
If there is no physical barrier, such as no traffic lines in the street or even a double yellow line, and you're on the opposite side of the road, you must stop when approaching a school bus with its stop arm extended.
Always be cautious around school buses to ensure the safety of children boarding or exiting the bus.
If you get charged, you could potentially face either a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor charge. Both of these charges could technically put you in jail. It also means that you can’t simply pay a fine and never have to show up for court.
“These kinds of charges are a whole different ballgame.”
If you are facing charges, don’t go into court alone. Make sure you have a school bus stop arm violation defense attorney by your side. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your reputation is on the line, make sure Jack Rice Defense is by your side.