As shared on the HCS Facebook Page
Hardy County Schools has been experiencing higher incidents of Stop Arm Violations. We have had TWO just this week that were extremely dangerous. Please take the time to read the State Code and share this information with everyone you know. Our students rely on us to keep them safe, so let us do just that!
Related State code https://code.wvlegislature.gov/17C-12-7/
What it is:
A stop arm (also called a stop sign arm) is a mechanical arm that extends from the side of a school bus and displays a red stop sign when the bus is stopped to allow students to get on or off.
The violation:
When the stop arm is extended and the red lights are flashing, drivers must stop behind the bus and remain stopped until the arm is retracted and the lights stop flashing.
Why it’s dangerous:
Passing a stopped school bus with the stop arm extended puts students in a “danger zone” where they are most vulnerable.
Consequences:
Stop arm violations can lead to significant penalties, including fines, potential jail time, and driver’s license suspension.
Camera Systems:
All Hardy County school buses are equipped with cameras that can capture stop arm violations. These cameras can provide evidence to law enforcement to help enforce the laws.
Enforcement:
Law enforcement agencies are actively working to enforce school bus stop arm laws to protect student safety.
Penalties Vary:
The specific penalties for stop arm violations can vary by state and the severity of the infraction.
(Moorefield Examiner added note: A viral video captured from a Kanawha County school bus shows a speeding motorist almost killing an elementary school aged girl getting off the bus during a Stop Arm Violation. No one wakes up in the morning expecting to harm or even kill a child while driving, but violating these laws could result in just that – and a long sentence in State prison.)
