I Failed to Stop for a School Bus in the Twin Cities. What to Do
Driving in the Twin Cities and the greater metropolitan area of Minnesota comes with numerous challenges and responsibilities. Between heavy traffic, pedestrian crossings, and unexpected stops, it’s easy to become distracted. But what happens if, in the midst of this chaos, you accidentally fail to stop for a school bus with its flashing red lights and extended stop arm? While it may seem like an innocent mistake, the legal consequences are severe. In Minnesota, this isn’t just a traffic violation—it’s a crime. If you find yourself in this situation, consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney is essential. If you are facing school bus violation charges, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
“This is no traffic ticket. This is a crime.”
Understanding the Severity: More Than Just a Ticket
Failing to stop for a school bus stop arm is not a minor infraction—it is a criminal offense that law enforcement takes very seriously. This law exists to protect children as they board and exit school buses, making violations particularly serious. If you drive past a stopped school bus, you risk not only hefty fines and possible jail time but also endangering the safety of young students.
Minnesota’s School Bus Stop Arm Law
If you are charged with violating the school bus stop arm law, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Awareness of the law is critical. Minnesota law mandates that all vehicles must stop at least 20 feet away from a school bus when its stop arm is extended, and red lights are flashing. This requirement applies even to drivers on the opposite side of the street unless a physical barrier, such as a median, separates the lanes.
Potential Charges and Penalties
Being caught violating this law can lead to serious consequences. Depending on the circumstances, the penalties you may face include:
Misdemeanor: A criminal conviction, up to 90 days in jail, and a fine of up to $1,000.
Gross Misdemeanor: A criminal conviction, up to one year in jail, and a fine of up to $3,000.
Additionally, depending on the details of your violation and your driving history, you could face suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.
Advanced Enforcement: High-Resolution Cameras
Law enforcement no longer relies solely on bus drivers to report violations. Many school buses in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas are equipped with high-resolution cameras that capture the license plates of vehicles that fail to stop. This technology strengthens the prosecution’s case, making it even more critical to have a skilled defense attorney on your side.
“You can’t just pay this fine. You are required to appear in court and will likely be sitting along people charges with DWIs, domestic assaults and the like. This is a criminal charge.”
Protect Your Rights: Seek Legal Representation
If you are facing charges for a school bus stop arm violation, understanding your legal options is crucial. You need an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney who can evaluate the evidence, develop a strong defense, and protect your rights.
Jack Rice Defense: Your Legal Advocate
At Jack Rice Defense, we provide the experienced, aggressive representation needed to fight school bus stop arm violation charges. Jack Rice, a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, former CIA Officer, and former prosecutor, brings a unique and powerful approach to defending your case.
Don’t let one mistake derail your future. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free and confidential consultation today. Call us at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 because your future matters.