MN School Bus Stop Arm Violation

In the State of Minnesota, when a school bus is stopped on a street or highway and is displaying an extended stop-signal arm and flashing red lights - a driver approaching the bus is required to stop their vehicle at least 20 feet away from the bus and not move their vehicle until the signal arm is retracted and the red lights stop flashing.  If someone fails to do this - it is a crime.  

Believe it or not, it is also a crime to pass or attempt to pass a school bus on the right-hand, passenger-door side of bus while it is displaying the "pre-warning" flashing amber signals.  If you have been ticket for either of these infractions, you best bet (even if you think you are guilty) is to contact an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney.  
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The Consequences

Someone who fails to stop a vehicle while a school bus has its stop-arm extended is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a minimum fine of $300.... if convicted.  The penalty could also include jail time and/or a larger fine.  See Minnesota Statute Sec. No.: 169.444.  

A person is guilty of a gross misdemeanor if they fail to stop their motor vehicle and commit either or both of the following:

• Passing or attempting to pass the school bus in a motor vehicle on the right-hand, passenger-door side of the bus; and/or 
• Passing or attempting to pass the school bus in a motor vehicle when a school child is outside of and on the street used by the school bus or on the adjacent sidewalk

According to the government, passing a school bus (whether accidental or intentional) in such a situation endangers the lives of children. Therefore,  police and prosecutors take these crimes very seriously. You should to --- that is why I suggest that any person charged with illegally passing a school bus should call the Rolloff Law Office to get answers.  As a former prosecutor, I have worked on dozens of cases like this --- I know all of the "ins" and "outs" and I can help you to earn an outcome that helps you keep your license and your money.  Call today to set up a free consultation  (612) 234-1165.