What Do I Do If I'm Charged with a School Bus Arm Violation in St. Louis Park?
Driving in any busy area requires a heightened sense of awareness and attention to the diversity of elements around us, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and, crucially, school buses. A momentary lapse in attention in St. Louis Park could lead to a serious traffic violation that goes beyond a mere speeding ticket or a failure to obey traffic signals. Specifically, if you inadvertently drive past a stopped school bus that is picking up or dropping off children, you could find yourself facing not just a traffic infraction, but a criminal charge. If you are facing a school bus arm violation, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation.
“Remember, this is not simply a traffic ticket. This is a criminal offense.”
Understanding the School Bus Stop Arm Violation
In the eyes of Minnesota law, drivers must come to a complete stop no less than 20 feet away from a school bus that has activated its flashing red lights and extended its stop sign arm. This rule holds until the bus driver has fully retracted the sign and turned off the flashing lights. Additionally, it's prohibited to pass a school bus on the right side whenever the bus's amber lights are flashing, signaling that it is about to stop to load or unload children.
The Gravity of the Charge
Ignoring these safety regulations can result in serious legal consequences. It's essential to recognize that a school bus stop arm violation doesn't equate to a simple traffic ticket.
Misdemeanor Charges: A basic violation can lead to misdemeanor charges, carrying penalties including a criminal record, up to 90 days in jail, and fines reaching $1,000.
Gross Misdemeanor Charges: More severe violations, such as passing a stopped school bus on the right or when children are present outside the bus, could escalate to gross misdemeanor charges. These offenses can result in up to a year in jail, a $3,000 fine, and possibly the suspension or revocation of your driver's license.
In recent years, enforcement has been significantly bolstered through the use of high-resolution cameras fitted on school buses. These cameras help law enforcement officials to accurately identify violators by capturing their vehicles' movements within the critical 20-foot zone around the bus.
What Should You Do If Charged?
If you find yourself accused of a school bus stop arm violation, understanding your rights and the potential consequences is paramount. It's advisable to seek representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney who can guide you through the legal process, help mitigate the charges, or potentially have them dismissed.
“Because these are charged as with either misdemeanors or gross misdemeanors, you could be looking at euphorias to 90 days in jail for the misdemeanor and a year for the gross misdemeanor.”
Jack Rice Defense: Your Ally in Legal Challenges
Facing such charges can be daunting, but you don't have to navigate the legal system alone. Jack Rice Defense, founded by Jack Rice—a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist with an extensive background as a CIA Officer and prosecutor—specializes in providing robust defense strategies for their clients. Recognized for their dedication and expertise, Jack Rice Defense offers confidential consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
For anyone charged with a school bus arm violation in St. Louis Park or anywhere in Minnesota, a prompt response is crucial. Reach out to Jack Rice Defense at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 for a free confidential consultation and ensure you have a strong advocate on your side.