Bus Patrol
Every year, nearly 40 million motorists illegally pass stopped school buses in the US, putting students at risk as they travel to and from school. These illegal passing incidents can result in tragedy, It’s crucial that we work together to reduce reckless driving around school buses and make roads safer for our students.
In Virginia, data from the 2025 National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS) survey reported that over 1,600 drivers passed stopped school buses in a single day across the state. These violations put students at risk and could result in close calls or even tragic accidents.
Nationally, reports show that nearly 40 million vehicles illegally pass a stopped school bus each year. This statistic comes from an annual survey, with the most recent data from the 2024-2025 school year.
These alarming statistics highlight the danger of illegally passing school buses and emphasize the need for stronger enforcement to protect children.
Our Goal
The goal of this safety program is to reduce reckless driving around school buses and make roads safer for everyone. Data shows that over 90% of first-time violators do not repeat offend, highlighting the program’s potential to change driver behavior and create a culture of awareness and responsibility around the yellow school bus.
How will the school bus safety program work?
Through the program, we have equipped every bus in our district’s fleet with advanced safety technology, including AI-powered stop-arm cameras. These cameras detect when a vehicle breaks the law and illegally passes a stopped school bus.
By using automated enforcement, Poquoson Police Department can monitor every school bus stop and hold drivers accountable for violating the law and putting students at risk. Over time, the program helps change driver behavior, reduce illegal passings, and ensure children get to and from school safely every day.
When should you stop for a stopped school bus in Virginia?
In Virginia, drivers must stop for a stopped school bus when it’s red lights are flashing and the stop sign if extended, or whenever the bus is loading or unloading passengers. You should bring your vehicle to a complete stop and remain stopped until everyone is clear, and the bus moves again.
- On a two-lane highway: All vehicles must stop.
- On a four-lane highway with a center turn lane: All vehicles must stop.
- On a four-lane highway with a median or barrier: Only vehicles behind the bus need to stop. Traffic in the opposite direction may proceed with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much is the fine for illegally passing a stopped school bus?
- How can I pay the citation?
- What should I do if I lose my violation notice?
- What does Virginia law say about school bus cameras?
- What if I was not the one driving the vehicle at the time of the offense?
- Contact Information
How much is the fine for illegally passing a stopped school bus?
How can I pay the citation?
What should I do if I lose my violation notice?
What does Virginia law say about school bus cameras?
What if I was not the one driving the vehicle at the time of the offense?
Contact Information
Contact Information
To speak to a representative about a stop-arm violation, contact the AlertBus Customer Contact Center toll-free support line at 1-877-504-7080.
- The Contact Center is available Monday- Friday (8 am – 5 pm)
- English and Spanish-speaking customer service agents are available to address your inquiries.
- To expedite our service, please have your citation number ready when you call.
Online Access:
To view the violation video evidence online, visit www.alertbus.com and enter your citation number (example: VA-777777) and vehicle license plate number (no dashes or spaces), as listed on your citation.
Links and Resources for More Information