Understanding School Bus Stop Arm Violations and Their Legal Implications

In Minnesota, stop arm violations occur when drivers fail to observe the traffic laws designed to protect our children as they travel to and from school. Drivers are required to stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus when the stop sign is extended, the flashing red lights are activated, and the stop arm is visible. It is essential to wait for the bus driver to retract the stop arm before continuing to drive. Additionally, it is against the law to overtake a school bus on the right side when its amber lights are flashing, signaling that it is preparing to stop. But how does the government enforce these laws? Through the use of cameras. If you find yourself facing a stop arm violation in Minnesota, it's vital to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reports that approximately 7,000 school buses—roughly 59% of all buses in the state—are now equipped with cameras to monitor compliance with these regulations.

Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.

The Government's Investment in Bus Stop Arm Cameras

To enhance safety and enforce the laws protecting children, the OTS has allocated $14 million in state-funded grants over the past few years specifically for the installation of bus stop arm cameras. This collaborative initiative includes contributions from various law enforcement agencies across the state, aiming to gather evidence of violations and increase the chances of successful prosecution.

Identifying the Scope of Violations

Recent data from grant recipients illustrates a troubling trend: numerous drivers are ignoring stop arm signals, highlighting the need for increased enforcement and public awareness. For example, two bus services alone reported 232 violations within the first three months of 2023. Since the commencement of grant funding, Schools and transportation entities have worked diligently to install cameras on thousands of school buses. These cameras are pivotal in identifying those who disregard the law and help ensure accountability in the interests of student safety.

Consequences of Stop Arm Violations

Stop arm violations carry serious repercussions. Depending on the situation, offenders may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a gross misdemeanor, both of which could lead to jail time and substantial fines. A misdemeanor violation for failing to stop can lead to penalties including up to 90 days in jail and fines reaching $1,000. More severe consequences apply if a driver passes the bus on the right with the stop arm out or drives past while a child is present, as these actions escalate the charge to a gross misdemeanor. Gross misdemeanors can result in up to 360 days in jail and fines up to $3,000. Additionally, offenders may face driver's license suspension or revocation. For a free, confidential consultation, reach out to Jack Rice Defense today.

“It’s crucial to recognize that a stop arm violation is more than just a traffic ticket; it is classified as a crime, and there can be jail time involved.”

Final Thoughts

Implementing stop arm cameras on school buses is a vital step toward addressing violations, enhancing the safety of our students, and fostering responsible driving habits. The potential ramifications of a stop arm violation are severe and can significantly impact your life. If you are confronting such charges in Minnesota, it is imperative to seek guidance from a qualified criminal defense attorney. For a free consultation, contact Jack Rice Defense at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. If you have successfully avoided a criminal record until now, why jeopardize that?

Jack Rice is a nationally recognized and award-winning criminal defense attorney, honored as a Minnesota Super Lawyer for 2024 and listed among the Best Lawyers of 2023. He received the Minnesota Attorney of the Year Award for 2021 and is the founder of Jack Rice Defense. Jack has also received the Professional Excellence Award from the MSBA in 2020 and is a board-certified specialist in Criminal Law with the MSBA. With a background as a former prosecutor and U.S. Central Intelligence Agency officer, he possesses decades of experience representing clients in a wide array of serious criminal cases.