Understanding School Bus Stop Arm Violations and Their Legal Implications in the Twin Cities and Greater Metro Area
In the Twin Cities and Greater Metro area here in Minnesota, school bus stop arm violations pose a serious threat to our children as they travel to and from school. Drivers are legally 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 clearly displayed. It’s crucial to remain stationary until the bus driver fully retracts the stop arm before proceeding. Additionally, it is illegal to pass a school bus on the right side while its amber lights are flashing, indicating that it is preparing to stop. If you find yourself accused of a stop arm violation in the Twin Cities, consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney is important.
“It's important to remember that a Stop Arm Violation is not simply a traffic ticket. This can be treated as a crime.”
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) indicates that around 7,000 school buses statewide—about 59% of all school buses—are equipped with cameras to help enforce these important safety laws.
Government Investment in Bus Stop Arm Cameras
To enhance safety and enforce laws protecting children, the OTS has invested $14 million in state-funded grants for the installation of bus stop arm cameras in recent years. This initiative is a collaborative effort among law enforcement agencies throughout the Twin Cities and Minnesota, all working together to gather evidence on violations to improve the chances of successful prosecution.
Understanding the Scope of Violations
Recent statistics from local school districts reveal a troubling trend: increasing disregard for stop arm signals. For example, two bus services in the Twin Cities reported a staggering 232 violations within the first three months of 2023 alone. With the introduction of grant funding, schools and transportation organizations have actively worked to equip thousands of school buses with cameras. These devices are essential in identifying violators, thereby ensuring accountability for the safety of students.
Consequences of Stop Arm Violations
The consequences of stop arm violations can be severe. Offenders may face charges classified as either a misdemeanor or a gross misdemeanor, both of which can result in jail time and substantial fines. A misdemeanor charge for failing to stop may lead to penalties of up to 90 days in jail and fines as high as $1,000. More serious penalties arise when a driver passes a bus on the right side with the stop arm extended or drives by while a child is nearby, escalating the charge to a gross misdemeanor. Gross misdemeanors can result in up to 360 days of imprisonment and fines reaching $3,000. Additionally, offenders may face suspension or revocation of their driver’s license. For a free, confidential consultation, reach out to Jack Rice Defense today.
“If you’ve lived your entire life without a criminal charge, now is not the time to hope it will all just go away. It won’t.”
Final Thoughts
The implementation of stop arm cameras on school buses is a key measure to combat violations, safeguard our students, and encourage responsible driving behavior. The potential repercussions of stop arm violations are serious and could significantly impact your life. If you are confronting such charges in the Twin Cities or Great Metro area, it’s important 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've maintained a clean criminal record until now, don’t take the risk—take action to protect yourself.