New Kentucky School Bus Law Expands Stop Requirement
As another school year begins, Kentucky roads will soon be filled with more students walking, families dropping off children, and school buses carrying kids to and from the classroom. With increased traffic comes a greater responsibility for drivers to make safety a priority.
This back-to-school season, Kentucky drivers should be aware of an important change to the state’s school bus safety laws. Under Kentucky’s House Bill 7, drivers in both directions must stop for a stopped school or church bus displaying flashing red lights and an extended stop arm on all multi-lane and two-lane roads unless separated by a physical barrier. The only exception is when a driver traveling in the opposite direction is separated from the bus by a physical barrier or an unpaved median. Simply traveling on a four-lane roadway is no longer enough to proceed past a stopped bus.
(Kentucky State Police [KSP], 2026)
If a driver passes a stopped school bus and cannot be identified, Kentucky law now allows authorities to presume that the registered owner or lessee of the vehicle was operating the vehicle at the time of the violation, making them responsible for potential penalties unless they can establish otherwise.
Back-to-School Safe Driving Tips
Slow Down in School Zones
- School zones exist for a reason. Reduce your speed immediately when entering a school zone and remain alert for children crossing streets, walking near traffic, or moving between vehicles. Students may be present outside traditional drop-off and pick-up times, so drivers should always stay cautious.
Stop for Crosswalks
- Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and wait until children have completely cleared the roadway before moving forward. A few extra seconds can make a life-saving difference.
Never Pass or Double Park in School Zones
- Passing another vehicle, stopping in unsafe areas, or double parking near schools can create dangerous situations by blocking visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and children.
Give Yourself Extra Time
- Many crashes happen because drivers are rushing. Leave earlier, plan for increased traffic, and avoid making unsafe decisions because you are running late. A few extra minutes can help ensure everyone arrives safely.
Put the Phone Away
- Distracted driving remains one of the biggest dangers on the road. Keep your eyes on the roadway, avoid texting while driving, and eliminate distractions, especially in busy school areas.