Fayette County Officials Crack Down on School Bus Stop-Arm Violations

CONNERSVILLE, IN — The Fayette County School Corporation (FCSC) and local law enforcement are issuing an urgent plea to the public following a significant rise in school bus stop-arm violations this school year. Authorities report that multiple tickets are being issued weekly for drivers illegally passing stopped school buses.

Superintendent Jeremy Duncan emphasized the seriousness of the situation in a message to the “Spartan Family,” noting that the violations are occurring throughout the county, particularly on wider thoroughfares within Connersville city limits, such as Park Road.

The Law is Clear: Stop in Both Directions

FCSC officials are reminding drivers that even on multi-lane roads, vehicles must stop in both directions when a school bus activates its red flashing lights and extends its stop arm.

Superintendent Duncan stated: “In Indiana, it’s illegal for drivers to pass a stopped school bus that has its red lights flashing and stop-arm extended. Here in Fayette County, this includes virtually ALL of our roadways.”

The only exception is on a highway that is divided by a physical barrier, such as a concrete wall or a grassy median. Since Fayette County roadways rarely feature such divisions, drivers should operate under the assumption that they are always required to stop for a stopped bus.

Here is a quick summary of the stopping guidelines (INDOT Guidelines):

Roadway Type Requirement for All Motorists
Two-Lane Roadways MUST STOP (in both directions)
Multi-Lane Roadways with NO Barrier MUST STOP (in both directions)
Multi-Lane Roadways with a Grassy or Concrete Barrier Vehicles behind the bus MUST stop. Vehicles approaching from the opposite side are NOT required to stop, but should proceed with caution.
Increased Enforcement and Steep Penalties

The Fayette County School Corporation has equipped its buses with stop-arm cameras to capture violators.

Law enforcement is committed to holding offenders accountable. Violators could pay a fine of up to $10,000 or have their license suspended for up to 90 days for the first offense or up to a year for the second.

Superintendent Duncan thanked the community for its support, stating, “We are willing to take every possible step to keep our children safe… We thank you for your continued help and support as we strive to protect our most precious assets… our children.”

Source: Message from Superintendent Jeremy Duncan, Fayette County School Corporation, via social media post: IMPORTANT SCHOOL BUS SAFETY MESSAGE.