Illegal passing has become a hot topic for buses, and countless organizations are working to increase awareness of the dangers associated with stop-arm violations. Not only was illegal passing the central topic for this year’s National School Bus Safety Week, but school districts and police departments are making a year-round effort to increase enforcement and protect students from negligent drivers.
The latest video hoping to inform drivers of the risk they take when they pass stopped buses comes from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and WNCN. They partnered to create a public service announcement to counter the high rates of stop-arm violations documented in the state.
WNCN found that North Carolina school bus drivers witnessed 3,153 vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses on a single day this year. They also found there have been at least 13 child traffic fatalities at school bus stops and countless more injuries.
“We hope this resonates with drivers,” says WNCN Director of Marketing Robby Thomas. “We tried to create something that captures the viewers’ attention and prevents future tragedies. We sincerely appreciate the cooperation of DPI, Harnett County Schools, Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, and our talented young actress, Samantha Rahn, who each played pivotal roles in the success of this production.”
“The PSA highlights the responsibility of all parties involved,” adds Derek Graham, Transportation Services Section Chief for NC Dept. of Public Instruction. “Certainly motorists need to pay attention and obey the law. Students also have a responsibility to keep an eye on approaching vehicles when standing near or stepping into the roadway. We hope parents will use this as an opportunity to have this important safety discussion with their children.”
