Yellow school bus with extended stop sign displaying red lights on a clear day.
Date: 08/20/2026
WESTMINSTER, Colo -- Keep our kids safe! As students head back to the classroom and school buses hit the roads, make sure you know the rules!
Last year, a new law took effect for drivers when it comes to a stopped school bus displaying flashing red lights. Drivers going the opposite direction of the bus must also stop unless there is a physical barrier separating the directions of traffic. If you are traveling the same direction as the bus, you have to stop, regardless.
FAQs for oncoming traffic:
Q: What if there are painted lines or a painted median separating opposing directions of traffic?
- A: This is not a physical barrier and therefore you must stop.
Q: There is a raised median separating the opposing direction of traffic. Do I still need to stop?
- A: If you are a driver coming from the oncoming lane, you may proceed to drive with caution as this is considered a physical barrier.
Q: How far back must drivers stop behind a school bus with its flashing red lights?
- A: Drivers must stop at least 20 feet before reaching a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing, whether it is on your side of the road, the opposite side of the road or at an intersection.