http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/school-bus-kids-s5.jpgRules requiring the use of amber lights to notify drivers that a school bus is slowing down to pick up or let children off the bus went into effect Tuesday.

MADISON - New rules going into effect regarding the use of amber lights on school buses will make it safer for students getting on and off school buses and help prevent accidents.

“The new rules requiring the use of amber lights to notify drivers that a school bus is slowing down to pick up or let children off the bus has the potential to save lives and prevent accidents” said State Senator Dave Hansen (D-Green Bay) who co-authored a bi-partisan bill with State Representative John Macco (R-Ledgeview) that would also have required their use.

With higher speed limits, more traffic and drivers who are often in a hurry, having the ability to alert drivers that a school bus is preparing to stop to pick up or let off children is an important new tool to help reduce the likelihood of a child being struck as they cross the street or of an accident between a car and a school bus.

The new rule, which went into effect Tuesday, requires school buses made since 2005 to have amber lights that are to be activated by the driver 300 feet prior to the bus stopping where the speed limit is 45 mile per hour or greater or 100 feet prior to the bus stopping when the speed limit is less than 45 miles per hour. On older model school buses red lights must be activated no less than 100 feet prior to the bus stopping.

This new requirement will give drivers advanced warning that the school bus will be stopping giving drivers more time to slow down and come to a complete stop before children get on or off the bus. It’s a common sense measure that can prevent accidents, needless injury, or even death to students who take the bus to and from school.

According to the DOT website, failure to stop for a school bus displaying red flashing lights can result in a minimum fine of $326.50 and four points.

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Legislative writer Jay Wadd contributed to this story.