What are the laws about passing a stopped school bus?

In Texas, it is illegal to pass a stopped school bus with its flashing red lights active. Doing so is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500. If a driver passes a stopped school bus on the opposite side of a divided highway, they could receive an even more serious offense. When a school bus is stopped, vehicles approaching from either direction must stop and remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or until the driver signals the vehicle may proceed. This applies to all drivers, regardless if the street is two-way or four-way. This applies to highway, expressway, freeway, or any other road and even if the school bus is stopped on the other side of a guardrail or an installation. Exceptions include when an officer or police officer signals for the driver to proceed. Drivers should not try to assume it is okay to pass, and they must never pass a stopped school bus from the rear. If a driver sees a stopped school bus, they should always slow down and be prepared to stop. This is important to make sure children have a safe travel environment, and to avoid penalties under Texas law.

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