More than 18,500 students will enter through the doors of Hanover County’s 22 schools next Tuesday, Sept. 5, as the 2006-07 school year begins.

Remember that if you are approaching a stopped school bus that is picking up or dropping off children, Virginia law requires you to stop a safe distance from the bus. You must remain stopped until all children are clear of the roadway, the signals stop flashing, the stop sign is retracted, and the bus starts moving again. These laws also apply on private roads.

A fine of up to $250 can be assessed for the traffic violation. If you are convicted of illegally passing a school bus, you will receive a six-point violation that will stay on your record for 11 years.

The only situation in which a motorist is not required to stop is if you are traveling in the opposite direction from the bus and your vehicle is separated from the bus by a physical barrier or an unpaved median.

Studies show that most school bus fatalities occur when students are loading or unloading from the bus.

Parents and students should stay clear of the “Danger Zone,” which is a 10-foot perimeter around the outside of the bus, until the driver is ready for the student to board or depart. If students have to cross the road, please cross in front of the bus where the driver can see them, never go behind the bus.

For more information about Hanover’s schools, including student registration and bus routes, see http://hcps2.hanover.k12.va.us/

Courtesy Hanover County