In the September 18 meeting of the Bethel School Board, the directors approved the installation of small safety cameras on several school buses. These cameras  will be directed at traffic to capture video of motorists who disregard school bus stop paddles and flashing lights when students are loading and unloading at bus stop sites.  These are currently approved for a one year trial period to quantify the frequency and severity of violations.

According to a memorandum from the Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction dated July 26, 2011, “Fines resulting from the tickets issued may be used for paying the cost of the purchase of the camera system and administration of the processing of such tickets by law enforcement and the courts.  Remaining funds are returned to the school district and may be used only for school zone safety projects.” These cameras were authorized by Substitute Senate Bill 5540 in 2011.

But remember, the fine for running through a bus stopped with red flashing lights is $394.

If you see a bus stopped with red flashing lights, stop for it. The only situation where you do not need to stop is when there is a divided roadway and you are in the opposing traffic. Pacific Avenue is an example. Those cars do not need to stop, only the ones in the same direction as the bus, in both lanes.

Another situation which the Post has specifically inquired is the divided roadway where the road has three lanes, one of which is a two-way left turn lane such as Spanaway Loop Road and places on 176^th and 22^nd Avenue. Where there is a two-way left turn lane, the road is considered a divided roadway and the opposing traffic does not have to stop. That is Washington State law, remember in other states, that may not be the case.

Drive safely; watch out for those precious kids headed to and from school.