As new school year begins, Indiana State Police have strong warning about bus safety

SELLERSBURG, Ind. (WDRB) — Thousands of school buses will soon return to the roads as a new school year begins, and Indiana State Police are reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert.

ISP Sgt. Carey Huls said traffic will increase significantly in the coming weeks, especially in school zones. While state police do not plan to add patrols, troopers will monitor heavily traveled areas near schools.

Huls urged drivers to keep a safe distance behind school buses and to stop when buses extend their stop arms. Passing a stopped school bus is not just a traffic violation in Indiana — it’s a misdemeanor that can lead to serious penalties.

“Times are going to change when schools come back into session,” Huls said. “That trip that only took a couple minutes in the past and you didn’t have any interference — you’re going to have those school buses stopping, and it’s going to put a delay in some drive time to and from work.”

Many buses are now equipped with cameras, meaning officers do not have to witness the violation to issue a citation.

Huls also warned that school schedules vary, so buses may be on the road outside the traditional morning and afternoon rush hours.

Some southern Indiana school districts return this week. Jefferson County Public Schools in Louisville starts classes Thursday, Aug. 7.

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