Michigan police target drivers passing stopped school buses through Oct. 23
Michigan State Police says Operation Safe Stop runs statewide Oct. 19 to 23 and targets drivers who pass a stopped school bus.
What happened
Operation Safe Stop runs statewide Oct. 19 to 23 and focuses on drivers who ignore a school bus's flashing red lights and extended stop arm. Michigan recorded 1,189 crashes involving a school bus in 2025, up 14% from 2024.
Why it matters
Passing a stopped school bus is a civil infraction with a fine up to $500. If it causes an injury, it is a misdemeanor with a fine up to $1,000, up to a year in jail, or both.
What to consider
Remind drivers to prepare to stop at flashing yellow lights and to stop at least 20 feet back when the red lights flash. Michigan school bus safety · Michigan trucking insurance guide
Sources
Reporting and records credited to the sources above, Oct. 15, 2026. We link to the original and add what it means for carriers.
This item is general information, not legal advice or an offer of insurance. Rules and programs change, so check the sources above. Helm Partners is a trucking-only insurance agency being formed in Michigan. Our Michigan license is pending. We do not quote or sell insurance until licensed. How we pick, source and correct Wire items · More from The Wire