Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) troopers plan to be "highly visible" along bus routes and in school
zones this week for the observance of National School Bus Safety Week, which runs Monday through
Friday, Oct. 18-22.
The patrol noted the requirements for drivers near a stopped school bus: Motorists approaching a
stopped school bus from either direction are required to stop at least 10 feet from the bus while the bus is
receiving or discharging students. When a road is divided into four or more lanes, only traffic driving in the
same direction as the bus must stop. Drivers may not resume their travels until the bus resumes traveling.
The patrol inspects all school buses before the start of school and once during the academic year, per
Ohio law.
Since 2016, Ohio has seen 6,525 crashes involving school buses, resulting in eight deaths and 2,097
injuries; none of the dead were occupants of the school buses.
Franklin County saw the largest number of crashes in that time frame at 1,112, followed by Hamilton
County at 848; Cuyahoga, 554; Lucas, 346; and Montgomery, 325. Wyandot and Monroe counties
experienced the fewest with three.
More statistics on crashes involving school buses are available HERE.
"As our students get accustomed to getting on and off the school buses, it's important they do not get
complacent and remain alert at all times," said OSHP Col. Richard S. Fambro. "Although drivers are
required to stop for school buses loading or unloading passengers, children should not rely on motorists
to do so."
"School Bus Safety Week reminds us of the importance of ensuring our students arrive safely to school
and back home again each day," said Gov. Mike DeWine in a statement. "School buses remain the safest
mode of transportation for students, and with motorists, parents, and students working together, we can
continue to make this a safe year.”