MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – With classes back in session, school buses full of students are on the roads again. The Marquette City Police is reminding drivers to always stay cautious, especially in the early mornings and mid afternoons.
“Watch for kids, you never know where they can dart out from,” said Captain James Finkbeiner. “They’re excited, they want to get to school and see their friends. So first of all, please slow down.”
Under Michigan Law, passing a stopped bus is a citable offense. Even if an officer isn’t around, bus drivers are trained to report these dangerous incidents.
“When you see the yellow lights please slow down, prepare to stop, and once the red lights are out, stop at least 20 feet from the bus, and do not start driving until the bus lines come off and they start to drive,” reminded Finkbeiner. “A citable offense is one thing, the biggest thing that could happen, of course, is somebody could get hurt. That’s what we want to avoid.”
Marquette School Resource Officer, Nathan King also mentions that along with buses, new drivers are always approaching the roads as well.
“I think it’s important to know that we share the road with all different types of drivers, new drivers, people that have been driving for a long time,” said King. “Everyone drives at a different skill level and what’s comfortable for them. Keep in mind who you’re driving around with. Take your time and give people the space that they need to drive safely.”
