In Minnesota, the penalties for illegally passing a stopped school bus are severe:

• First Offense:
• Fine up to $500
• Misdemeanor:
• Up to 90 days in jail
• Up to $1,000 fine
• Gross Misdemeanor (if you pass on the right side or when a child is present):
• Up to 1 year in jail
• Up to $3,000 fine
• Passing a bus when a child is outside can elevate the offense to a gross misdemeanor offense.
• Additional Consequences:
• License suspension/revocation
• Increased insurance rates
• In some cases, the offense may be considered a petty misdemeanor.

Consult a qualified attorney if charged with this offense.

 

I Accidentally Did Not Stop for a School Bus in MN: What Happens?

When a school bus is stopped on a street or highway and displays an extended stop-signal arm and flashing red lights, the driver of a vehicle approaching the bus must stop the vehicle at least 20 feet away from the bus. Failure to do so may result in a passing a stopped bus charge. If you have been charged with this offense, calling a traffic lawyer Minnesota can help you obtain a favorable result in your case.

It is also a crime for a person to pass or attempt to pass a school bus in a motor vehicle on the right-hand passenger side of the door when the bus is displaying the pre-warning flashing signals, or when a school child is outside of and on the street or highway used by the school bus or on the adjacent sidewalk.

 

Severe Penalties & How a Lawyer Can Help

Passing a stopped school bus in Minnesota is a dangerous and illegal act with serious consequences. Understanding the law, penalties, and your options for legal defense is crucial if you’ve been charged with this offense. A lawyer can help you avoid creating a criminal record over a traffic matter by negotiating with the prosecutor to minimize the fine and avoid severe penalties.

 

Minnesota School Bus Laws: When MUST You Stop?

Minnesota law (Statute 169.444) is crystal clear:

• Stop Sign Arm Extended & Red Lights Flashing: All vehicles traveling in both directions MUST stop at least 20 feet away from the school bus displaying its stop sign arm and red flashing lights. This includes two-lane roads and multi-lane highways. Remain stopped until the bus driver retracts the stop arm and turns off the red lights.
• Pre-Warning Flashing Yellow Lights: Drivers should slow down and prepare to stop as these indicate the bus is preparing to stop. Passing on the right-hand side of the bus is illegal during this phase.

 

School Bus Stop Arm Cameras: A New Tool in Enforcement

To further protect children and enforce school bus stopping laws, many Minnesota school districts have implemented stop arm cameras on their buses. These cameras automatically capture images and video of vehicles that illegally pass stopped buses, providing irrefutable evidence of the violation. The presence of a school bus driver as a witness can also be relevant in court proceedings, adding another layer of accountability.

While these cameras are a valuable tool in enhancing safety, they also increase the likelihood of being caught if you fail to stop for a bus. It’s more important than ever to adhere to the law and remain vigilant around school buses.

If you’ve received a citation based on stop arm camera footage, a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the evidence, explore potential defenses (such as unclear signage or malfunctioning equipment), and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or alternative resolution.

Key Points:

• Stop arm cameras increase enforcement and accountability for school bus violations.
• Even if not observed by a police officer, violations can still result in a citation.
• A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate legal challenges arising from stop arm camera evidence.

 

Severe Consequences for Passing a Stopped School Bus in Minnesota

Violating Minnesota’s school bus stopping laws can result in far more than just a traffic ticket. The penalties are severe and escalate depending on the circumstances of the violation. The safety of school children is a primary concern, which is why the penalties for passing a stopped school bus are so stringent.

Criminal Charges:

• Misdemeanor: The minimum charge for failing to stop for a school bus with its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. This carries a penalty of up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
• Gross Misdemeanor: This more serious charge applies if you pass a stopped school bus on the right-hand side, or when a child is outside the bus or on the sidewalk. The penalties increase to up to one year in jail and/or a $3,000 fine.

Driver’s License Sanctions:

• Suspension or Revocation: A conviction for passing a stopped school bus can lead to a suspension or complete revocation of your driver’s license. The length of suspension or revocation depends on your driving history and the specifics of the offense, but can range from 30 days to a year or more.

Financial Impact:

• Increased Insurance Rates: Even if your license isn’t suspended, your car insurance premiums will likely increase significantly after a conviction. This financial burden can last for years.

Additional Penalties:

• Reinstatement Fees: If your license is suspended or revoked, you may have to pay additional fees to have it reinstated.
• Court Costs and Legal Fees: Legal defense against these charges can be expensive, adding to the overall financial impact.

Key Takeaway:

Passing a stopped school bus is a serious offense with potentially devastating consequences. The risk to children’s safety and the legal penalties make it crucial to always stop for school buses and exercise caution when driving near them.

 

Defending Against the Charges: Why You Need a Traffic Lawyer

If you’re facing a “passing a stopped school bus” charge in Minnesota, don’t try to navigate the legal system alone. An experienced traffic attorney can:

• Investigate the Circumstances: Were the bus lights and stop arm functioning properly? Was there an obstructed view? Were there any mitigating factors?
• Challenge the Evidence: Your lawyer will examine police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage to ensure the evidence against you is solid.
• Negotiate a Plea Deal: In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a reduced charge or lesser penalties.
• Represent You in Court: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will provide a strong defense to protect your driving privileges and minimize the consequences.

Remember: Children’s safety is paramount. Always stop for school buses and exercise caution around them. By following the law, you protect young lives and avoid serious legal consequences.

 

Should I Contact a Minnesota Traffic Lawyer?

Passenger a school bus is a serious offense with severe consequences. Having an experienced traffic lawyer Minnesota is therefore essential to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Gerald Miller PA has over 35 years of experience in traffic violation defenses.

Don’t Risk Your Future: Get Legal Help Today

A conviction for passing a stopped school bus can have lasting repercussions on your driving record, insurance rates, and even your freedom. The experienced traffic attorneys at Gerald Miller P.A. are ready to fight for you. Call us at 612-341-9080 for a free consultation.

For more information see the Minnesota Duty of Other Drivers Statute 169.444.