The Dufferin OPP Reminds Motorists to Stop for School Buses

FROM: Dufferin Detachment                                              DATE: September 29, 2026

DUFFERIN OPP REMINDS MOTORISTS TO STOP FOR SCHOOL BUSES

(DUFFERIN COUNTY) - The Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding residents and road users of the importance of stopping for school buses when their red overhead lights are activated and the stop arm is extended.

Children may not always be paying attention to their surroundings when getting on or off a school bus or crossing the roadway. Motorists are reminded to remain alert, slow down and be prepared for children who may enter the roadway unexpectedly.

All motorists approaching a stopped school bus with its red overhead lights activated and stop arm extended are required to stop. Failing to stop puts children at risk and can result in serious consequences, including a fine of at least $490 and six demerit points upon conviction.

The Dufferin OPP is asking residents and road users who witness a motorist failing to stop for a school bus to report the incident to police. Where possible, note the vehicle's licence plate, make, model, colour, location and direction of travel. Do not attempt to follow or confront the driver.

SAFETY REMINDERS FOR MOTORISTS

• Stop when approaching a school bus with its red lights activated and stop arm extended.
• Remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or the red lights and stop arm are no longer activated.
• Watch carefully for children getting on or off the bus and near the roadway.
• Be prepared for children to cross the road unexpectedly.
• Never pass a stopped school bus when required to stop.
• Report motorists who fail to stop for a school bus to police.

The safety of children travelling to and from school is a shared responsibility. The Dufferin OPP encourages all motorists to remain alert, exercise caution and give children the time and space they need to travel safely.

Residents and road users who witness a motorist failing to stop for a school bus are encouraged to report the incident to the Dufferin OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If the incident is occurring and there is an immediate threat to the safety of children or others, call 9-1-1.

Members of the Dufferin Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police are committed to public safety and delivering proactive and innovative policing in partnership with our communities. Officers value the public's contribution to building safe communities.