HUDSON, OH (October 2, 2019) – School bus red lights flashing. Stop sign extended. The law is very clear. Vehicles MUST stop for a school bus. After more than 100 reported violations each school year, cameras were installed on the school buses to catch violators in the act. Stopping for school buses is critical for the safety and welfare of Hudson’s children.
To further deter motorists from ignoring this law, this week City Council authorized increasing the penalties for drivers who fail to stop for a school bus. Prior to enacting the new Ordinance, the penalty for a first offense was a fine up to $500 and a license suspension up to 365 days.
With the new law, the penalty for a first offense is an unclassified misdemeanor with a fine up to $1000, up to 30 days in jail, and a license suspension up to 365 days.
Penalties for subsequent offenses within one year of being convicted or pleading guilty to a prior school bus charge would be a fine up to $1000, up to 180 days in jail, and a mandatory 30-day license suspension with the option of a suspension up to 365 days. Learn more about the rules for when to stop for a school bus and watch a safety video at www.hudson.oh.us/schoolbussafety.