As students return to classrooms across Colorado, the Colorado State Patrol is reminding drivers to slow down—and follow stricter laws when school buses are on the road.
A new law effective May 24 changes when drivers must stop for school buses. Now, all drivers must stop for a bus with flashing red lights, even if they’re coming from the opposite direction—unless there’s a physical barrier, like a raised or depressed median, separating the lanes.
“Before, a painted line or median was enough to keep going. That’s no longer the case,” said Trooper Hunter Mathews of the Colorado State Patrol. “We’ve made it stricter to keep kids safer. A physical barrier is now required before you can pass from the opposite side.”
Officials say too many drivers are still confused or careless about school bus safety, leading to dangerous—and sometimes deadly—encounters.
“We respond to these incidents during the school year all the time,” Mathews said. “Drivers see a bus on the right shoulder and think they can keep going. Then a child runs out behind it.”
So far this year, nine drivers have already been cited for failing to stop for school buses. Between 2021 and 2025, five crashes occurred because drivers didn’t stop—four caused property damage, and one led to injuries.
Last year, 15 drivers were cited, and state patrol hopes to bring that number down to zero.
Here’s what drivers need to remember:
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Stop at least 20 feet behind a school bus with flashing red lights.
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Do not pass unless a raised or depressed median separates your vehicle from the bus.
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When in doubt, stop. It’s better to be safe than to risk a child’s life.
“If you’re unsure whether to stop, do it,” Mathews urged. “The place where a bus stops becomes an intersection. Children could be crossing unexpectedly, and we want everyone to get home safely.”
Drivers caught illegally passing a school bus may face a citation, court summons, and even community service.
As kids head back to school, Colorado drivers are being asked to stay alert, slow down, and put safety first—because those few seconds of caution can save a life.
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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