School Bus Safety

Understanding Colorado's Stop Arm Laws

School Bus Safety: Understanding Colorado's Stop Arm Laws
By: Colorado State Patrol | July 2025

The safety ofour students is paramount, and a crucial part of ensuring their well-being
involves motorists, including caregivers, following Colorado's laws regarding stopping for
school buses. These laws are designed to protect children as they get on and off the bus.

When to STOP:

• Flashing Red Lights and Extended Stop Arm: This is the universal signal to stop.
• When a school bus activates its flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, drivers must stop at least 20 feet away rom the bus. This applies whether you are approaching the bus from behind or from the opposite direction on a two-lane road.
• Undivided Highways: On any highway, road, or street that is not divided by a median, you must stop regardless ofyour direction oftravel when the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.
• Remain Stopped: Do not proceed until the visual signal lights are no longer flashing and the stop arm has been retracted. Always watch for children who may still be crossing the road.

When You Might NOT Need to Stop (The Exception):

• Divided Roadway: Ifyou are traveling in the opposite direction of a school bus on a highway with a physically divided roadway (meaning there's a physical barrier or median, such as a concrete barrier or a grass median, separating the directions of traffic), you are generally not required to stop. It's important to note that painted medians or turning lanes no longer qualify as a "divided roadway" for this exception. This means you must stop if painted lines or a painted median separates your direction of travel from the bus. However, always exercise extreme caution.

Important Signals to Know:

• Flashing Yellow/Amber Lights: When a school bus flashes its yellow or amber lights, it's a warning that the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. You should slow down and be prepared to stop.
• Red Lights: These indicate the bus is actively picking up or dropping off students, and you must stop.

Penalties for Violations:
Illegally passing a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended is a
serious offense in Colorado. Penalties can include:

• Fines (starting around $250 for a first offense and increasing for subsequent violations within a five-year period).
• Points against your driver's license.
• Mandatory court appearances.
• Potential jail time in cases with aggravating factors or repeat offenses.

Why This Matters:
The area around a school bus is the most dangerous for children. Drivers must be vigilant
and prioritize the safety ofstudents. By understanding and obeying these laws, we can all
contribute to a safer environment for our children.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our students safe!