With students returning to classrooms for the new school year as of next week, Cottage Grove School Resource Officer Ryan Sisterman is reminding motorists that keeping children safe requires drivers to slow down, remain alert and obey school bus laws.
Thousands of students will once again be traveling to and from schools throughout Cottage Grove, increasing the number of school buses, young pedestrians and bicyclists motorists can expect to encounter each day.
“Red lights mean stop in Minnesota,” Officer Sisterman said. “Drivers traveling in both directions must come to a complete stop at least 20 feet away the moment a school bus turns on its flashing red lights.”
Drivers must remain stopped until the bus's red lights have stopped flashing and the bus begins moving again.
Sisterman said motorists also need to remember that children may be difficult to see around a stopped bus. Students may cross in front of a bus or suddenly emerge from behind it, while younger children in particular may behave unpredictably near traffic.
“Always expect students in places you can’t see them,” he said. “Children cross in front of the bus, run out from behind it, and move unpredictably.”
Slowing down around buses and bus stops gives drivers additional time to react. Sisterman also urged motorists not to rush and to eliminate distractions while behind the wheel.
“Put the phone away,” Sisterman said. “Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of traffic incidents near bus stops.”
School bus violations can also result in significant legal consequences. Sisterman noted that Minnesota violations carry substantial minimum fines, while more serious incidents can potentially result in driver's license suspensions and gross misdemeanor charges when a child is placed in danger or injured.
While school bus laws place specific responsibilities on motorists, Sisterman said the larger goal is for everyone using Cottage Grove roads to recognize their role in protecting students.
“Let’s work together to keep every student in Cottage Grove safe this school year,” Sisterman said. “Drive smart, stay off your phone, and stop for school buses.”
With buses returning to their regular routes and students again walking and biking near schools, Sisterman encouraged motorists to allow extra travel time and exercise patience, particularly during the busy morning arrival and afternoon dismissal periods.
“We wish everyone a fun and safe school year ahead,” he said.