Troopers put focus on school bus safety as classes resume
NEW PHILADELPHIA (WTUZ) (Aug. 21, 2024) – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to be aware that school buses will be back on the roads in the mornings, afternoons, and some evenings with sporting events.
New Philadelphia Post Commander Lt. Johnnie Maier says that again means getting back into the mode of anticipating slight delays and traffic backups.
“We need to allow for some more time. We’re going to be stopped in school zones. Allow more time to get to work, to get to where we’re going. Be respectful of that stop arm – the stop sign that comes out on the side of the school bus,” Maier said.
Maier wants drivers to remember you are required to stop at least 10 feet in front of or behind a bus when flashing lights are displayed.
He says state troopers do their part by conducting school bus inspections and making sure drivers are following the law.
“We’ll be out there to help educate and steer them in the right direction, and if need be, we’ll have to take enforcement,” said Maier.
According to statewide data from the patrol, there have been more than 6,100 traffic crashes involving school buses in Ohio since 2019, including 33 in Tuscarawas County.