As students across Fairfax County prepare to return to school on Monday, Aug. 18, officials are reminding drivers about the importance of following traffic rules in school zones and near school buses. The county is home to more than 180,000 public school students and over 200 schools, leading to increased traffic as more than 1,600 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) buses begin their routes.
Drivers are required by law to stop for school buses with flashing red lights unless separated by a median. Passing a stopped bus that is unloading children is considered reckless driving and is classified as a criminal offense. To enforce this rule, county school buses are equipped with cameras that record vehicles illegally passing when the stop arm is extended. Violators will receive a $250 citation by mail.
“Drivers must stop in both directions, unless separated from the bus by a median.
It is considered reckless driving – a criminal offense – if you pass a stopped school bus unloading children,” the announcement states.
Speed limits in designated school zones are strictly enforced when warning lights are flashing. Nine speed cameras are already active in county school zones, with three more set to become operational on Aug. 18 and an additional seven starting after Sept. 17 following a warning period. In total, 39 cameras will be monitoring drivers later this fall as part of ongoing efforts to improve student safety.
The speed cameras operate only during active school zone hours and target drivers exceeding the limit by at least 10 mph; fines increase based on speed but do not exceed $100.
The statement urges drivers: “Pay attention to school zones, especially where they start and end. Those slower school zone speed limits are there for a reason.”
Additionally, motorists should heed instructions from crossing guards stationed at over 160 locations throughout the county to further protect students traveling on foot or by bicycle.
“Heeding the whistles and waves of our dedicated crossing guards is yet another way you can ensure the safety of students,” according to county officials.
With private schools also beginning classes around this time, all road users are encouraged to allow extra travel time during commutes and prioritize student safety as traffic increases near educational facilities.
