A recently enacted Colorado law requires drivers to stop for school buses with flashing red lights and extended stop arms, even from the opposite direction, unless there is a physical barrier separating the lanes. This new law aims to enhance safety for students getting on and off school buses. The law went into effect as of May 24, 2025, and is being emphasized as students return to school. Key points of the new law include a Mandatory Stop – drivers must stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop sign extended, regardless of whether they are approaching from the same or opposite direction; Physical Barrier Exception – the only exception to this rule is when there is a physical barrier, like a median or barrier, separating the lanes of traffic; Painted Lines Not Sufficient – painted lines, such as a painted median, do not qualify as a physical barrier; Stay Stopped – drivers must remain stopped until the school bus’s red lights are turned off and the stop arm is retracted; Safety Emphasis – the law is designed to protect children as they enter and exit school buses, emphasizing the importance of driver awareness and caution; Enforcement – the Colorado State Patrol is reminding drivers of this law and will be enforcing it to ensure the safety of students.
REMINDER: Colorado Law Requires Drivers to Stop for School Buses — Even From Opposite Direction
