Drivers Urged To Use Care Around School Buses

As thousands of children start classes for the new school year, police and school officials are reminding motorists to exercise caution.

Schools across the Southern Tier are opening Wednesday and Thursday.

Union-Endicott Central School District transportation director Lisa Wilson says drivers should keep in mind that state law requires them to stop when approaching a school bus with its red lights flashing.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Wilson said motorists sometimes may illegally pass a school bus because they're in a hurry or because they are not paying attention.

Wilson said bus drivers underwent safety training over the past few weeks in preparation for the start of the school year.

Wilson also encouraged parents to help keep buses operating smoothly by making sure their children are at their bus stop five minutes before the scheduled pickup time.