School Bus Stop Sign Didn't Slow These Drivers Down: See Video

YONKERS, NY — Yonkers recently installed school bus stop-arm safety cameras on buses throughout the city, and from the looks of footage released today, it seems the move might have been long overdue.

The Yonkers Police Department released footage of drivers brazenly ignoring the flashing red lights and stop signs on school buses. Police officials said the motorists caught on camera will be receiving fines in the mail in the amount of $250, assuming this was a first offense. A second offense within 18 months will result in a $275 fine, and 3 or more violations within 18 months will earn fines of $300 per offense.

Police said the laws are in place to keep kids safe — to that end, the Traffic Division and Patrol Officers will be on the lookout for these offenders as well. Being cited by an officer carries even stiffer penalties than being caught on camera. A first conviction means a $250-$400 fine and up to 30 days in jail. A second conviction in 3 years results in fines of up to $750 and up to 180 days in jail. Three or more convictions in a 3 year period could mean up to a $1000 fine and as much as 180 days in jail.

A citation by police also results in 5 points on the driver's license.

"This is about the safety of our school children and pedestrians in our community," police officials said in a statement, releasing the dramatic footage. "We know this is a goal that we can all agree is important enough to be mindful of when on the roadways."

Officials reminded drivers that when a school bus stops, has red lights flashing and a stop-arm extended, traffic approaching from either direction must stop before reaching the bus. The rules apply on a two-lane road, on multi-lane roadways and on roadways separated by a median.