Colorado State Patrol Reminds Drivers to Stop for School Buses During National School Bus Safety Week

Description: Colorado State Patrol urges drivers to slow down in school zones and stop for school buses during National School Bus Safety Week, beginning Oct. 19, 2026...

Don’t Flunk School Bus Safety Week

National School Bus Safety Week kicks off on October 19

(COLORADO) - As National School Bus Safety Week kicks off on October 19, 2026, the Colorado State Patrol wants to remind drivers that they are responsible for keeping future generations safe. Caregivers and motorists can lead by example and drive safely. Whether driving through a school zone, passing a bus stop, or sharing the roadway with school-aged pedestrians, slow down and stay alert.

In August of this year, a new bill (HB26-1318) took effect, defining school zones as all roadways within at least 1,000 feet of a school property or boundary. Penalties and charges within school zones are doubled for certain speeding violations and other aggressive driving offenses committed in a school zone with appropriate signage posted.

School zone safety doesn’t stop on school property; it also applies to school bus stops.

When a school bus stops with its stop sign arm extended and red lights flashing, motorists traveling in both directions must stop completely. The only exemption is for motorists traveling in the opposite direction when a raised median or other physical barrier separates the roadway.

Each year, school buses are involved in near misses and crashes. One of the most common risks in school bus transportation is drivers illegally passing a stopped school bus displaying flashing red lights. This puts children at risk while they cross the street, board, or disembark.

When Drivers Should Stop for a Stopped School Bus

1. Drivers must stop at least 20 feet before reaching a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing, whether it is on your side of the road, the opposite side of the road, or at an intersection.
2. You are not required to stop if the school bus with its red lights flashing is on a roadway opposite you that is separated by a raised or depressed median or other physical barrier.
3. You must remain stopped until the flashing red lights are no longer operating.
4. Use caution after the school bus begins to move, as children may be crossing or near the roadway. Wait and watch before proceeding.

Don’t flunk the School Bus Safety Week test; slow down, pay attention, and stop for the bus. Children rely on drivers to avoid distractions and follow posted slower speeds. Keep students safe every day of the year, not only during National School Bus Safety Week.

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