Receiving a school bus ticket in Pennsylvania can be a daunting experience, but it’s essential to know that you have the right to contest it if you believe you’ve been unfairly cited. School bus tickets are typically issued for violations related to stopping for school buses with flashing red lights and stop arms extended. This article will guide you through the process of fighting a school bus ticket in Pennsylvania.

Understanding the Pennsylvania School Bus Stopping Law

Before you begin contesting the ticket, it’s crucial to understand the law that governs school bus stopping in Pennsylvania. Generally, you must stop at least ten feet away from a school bus that has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended when you are approaching from behind or in the opposite direction on an undivided road. This law is in place to ensure the safety of schoolchildren getting on or off the bus.

1. Law: When a school bus is stopped and has its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended, all traffic in both directions, on undivided highways, must come to a complete stop. This includes vehicles following the bus and those approaching it from the opposite direction.
2. Exceptions: There are some exceptions to this rule. You do not need to stop if you are on the opposite side of a divided highway, such as a road with a physical barrier or a median separating the lanes. However, if you are unsure whether to stop, it is safer to stop as required by law.
3. Penalties for Violations: Violating the school bus stopping law will result in significant penalties, including fines, points on your driving record, and a suspension of your driver’s license.
4. Enforcement: The law is strictly enforced in Pennsylvania, and school bus drivers are trained to report violations. Law enforcement officers may also conduct operations to catch violators.

It’s essential to exercise caution and vigilance when encountering a stopped school bus with flashing red lights and a stop arm extended, as the safety of schoolchildren is paramount. Ignoring these signals not only puts children at risk but can also lead to legal consequences for the driver.

You are rarely if ever given a ticket at the scene of the infraction. Instead a citation is usually sent to you via Mail. It takes around 1-2 weeks to receive the citation. You have ten days to respond to the citation before the court takes action for failure to respond. At this point it is important to act quickly to avoid additional penalties.

Gather Evidence

To strengthen your case, gather any evidence that supports your innocence or shows that the ticket was issued unfairly. This evidence might include:

• Witness statements from passengers or other drivers who can vouch for your actions at the time of the incident.
• Photos or videos that demonstrate the traffic conditions and whether you could have safely stopped for the school bus.
• GPS data, if available, to corroborate your position and speed at the time of the incident.

Consult an Attorney

Consider consulting an attorney who specializes in traffic violations, especially if the ticket carries substantial fines or could result in a license suspension. An attorney can provide legal advice and represent you in court if necessary. The traffic violation attorney should,

• Review the Ticket with you
• Contact the Issuing Authority to request a hearing
• Begin preparing for the Hearing

Fighting a school bus ticket in Pennsylvania can be a complex process, but it’s essential to assert your rights if you believe you’ve been unjustly cited or to preserve your drivers license. By understanding the law, gathering evidence, and following the appropriate legal procedures, you can increase your chances of successfully contesting a school bus ticket and maintaining a clean driving record. Consulting an attorney will give your your best chance to stay on the road. Contact The Shelton Firm today for a free consultation and go over your options after a school bus ticket.