School Bus Questions From Around Michigan

Laura Corser, from Grand Ledge, MI, has a question regarding the passing of a school bus which was stopped in the opposite lane of a two lane road but only had the bus’s right turn signal operating.  Laura passed the school bus and the school bus driver honked and waved at her.  Laura is wondering if she did anything wrong.

No Laura, you did not do anything wrong.  Many times a school bus driver will pull to the side and let traffic pass them before moving on, which is a polite thing to do but it is also the legal thing to do according to MCL 257.1855 (a-d).  When the driver honked and waved at you, they were just being friendly.

Patrice Heimstra, of Ypsilanti, MI, asks, does a person have to stop for a school bus if there is a center median between the opposite lanes of traffic?

MCL 257.682 (2) answers Patrice’s question, “The operator of a vehicle upon a highway that has been divided into 2 roadways by leaving an intervening space, or by a physical barrier, or clearly indicated dividing sections so constructed as to impede vehicular traffic, is not required to stop upon meeting a school bus that has stopped across the dividing space, barrier, or section.”

Terry Muth, of Manistique, MI, has a question regarding a driver’s responsibility when approaching a school bus which is using flashing yellow lights.

A school bus displaying flashing yellow lights is an early indication to drivers the bus is about to display their flashing red lights.  According to MCL 257.682, vehicles are only required to stop for a school bus displaying the flashing red lights. 

Paul Happ, formerly of Rockwood IL and recently relocated to Michigan, has a question regarding school buses and the need to stop if the bus has not yet stopped and deployed the school bus stop sign.

Paul’s question is answered in MCL 257.682 (1) which requires, “The operator of a vehicle overtaking or meeting a school bus that has stopped and is displaying 2 alternately flashing red lights located at the same level shall bring the vehicle to a full stop not less than 20 feet from the school bus and shall not proceed until the school bus resumes motion or the visual signals are no longer actuated.”

This past week we’ve seen some very devastating and deadly weather around the country.  We extend our condolences to those who have recently lost their homes and loved ones. 

It wasn’t so long ago we had our own weather disaster in the Village of Dexter, Michigan.  Michiganders stood tall and helped those in need.  I am reminded of the young son asking his father why he was helping someone.   The father responds, ““Because that’s what we do when people ask for help.”  Looks like some people need our help in Oklahoma.

Please take a moment this weekend to remember or thank a veteran.

If you have a questions or comments please email them to askatrooper12@gmail.com, or mail them to Ask A Trooper, Michigan State Police – Brighton Post, 4337 Buno Road, Brighton, MI  48116.