When Can You Legally Pass a School Bus in Ohio?
Written by Jay M. Kelley III in Accident & Injury on August 15, 2022
Updated July 2025
Getting stuck behind a school bus when you’re in a rush is annoying. But the law is clear in Ohio: passing a stopped school bus can be dangerous, illegal, and even deadly.
According to the latest crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 1,080 people were killed in school transportation crashes between 2013 and 2022. That includes 198 children under 18. Most of the kids killed as pedestrians were just 5 to 10 years old, and many were hit in the afternoon when school lets out.
Stopping for a school bus is not optional. Here’s what Ohio drivers need to know.
When You Have to Stop for a School Bus in Ohio
On roads with fewer than four lanes
You must stop at least 10 feet from the bus, no matter which direction you’re driving. Both directions stop.
On roads with four lanes or more
Only drivers going the same direction as the bus must stop. Oncoming traffic can keep moving.
See Ohio Revised Code §4511.75
What the Bus Lights Mean
Yellow flashing lights
The bus is getting ready to stop. You don’t need to stop yet, but you should slow down and be ready to.
Red flashing lights and stop arm
The bus has stopped to pick up or drop off kids. You must stop and wait until:
- The stop arm folds in
- The red lights stop flashing
- The bus starts moving again
Easy Rule of Thumb
🛑 Fewer than 4 lanes — everyone stops
🛑 4 or more lanes — only traffic behind the bus stops
When to stop for a school bus in Ohio
On a road with fewer than four lanes, all traffic approaching a stopped school bus from either direction must stop at least 10 feet from the front or rear of the bus and remain stopped until the bus begins to move or the bus driver signals motorists to proceed.
Why It Matters: New Crash Data
NHTSA’s most recent report (2013–2022) found:
- 1,082 total deaths in school transportation crashes
- 71% of those killed were in other vehicles
- 169 pedestrians were killed, mostly young children
- 76 school-age children were killed walking
- Most child pedestrian deaths happened between 3 and 4 p.m.
- 20% of children were hit by a school bus that was just driving straight
- Most fatal crashes happened outside intersections
School Bus Safety Tips for Drivers
- Never pass a bus on the right
- Never pass a bus at a railroad crossing
- Slow down near bus stops and crosswalks
- Stay alert in neighborhoods and school zones
- Avoid distracted driving, especially during pick-up and drop-off hours
Penalties for Breaking the Law
Passing a school bus when you should have stopped can cost you:
- 2 points on your license
- Fines up to $500
- Mandatory court appearance
- License suspension for up to one year
- Civil or criminal charges if someone is hurt
If you hit a child or pedestrian while violating this law, you could be held responsible for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. In serious cases, criminal charges may follow.
What to Do After a School Bus Crash
If you or your child was hurt because someone ignored Ohio school bus laws, talk to a personal injury attorney. Our team at Elk + Elk has helped families throughout Ohio understand their options and fight for justice.
Jay M. Kelly III - Managing Partner
Meet Jay M. Kelley III, a top medical malpractice attorney in Ohio with over 25 years of experience and $200 million in verdicts and settlements. He leads Elk + Elk’s litigation strategy in state and federal courts and has a unique background as a former felony prosecutor and hospital defense lawyer. Jay specializes in complex cases, including birth injuries and wrongful death, and is recognized by Best Lawyers and ranked among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Ohio.
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