New Jersey Law: Passing a School Bus Ticket
Elizabeth, NJ Passing a School Bus Ticket Attorney
“Stop or Pay Up: The High Cost of Ignoring School Bus Laws in New Jersey”
Imagine this: It’s a typical morning rush, and you’re navigating through the suburban streets of New Jersey. You’re already late, and the coffee hasn’t kicked in yet. Suddenly, ahead of you, a school bus extends its stop sign like a red-hued sentinel. You have a choice—do you stop, or do you risk it?
In New Jersey, passing a stopped school bus isn’t just a minor mistake; it’s a decision that can cost you dearly. Not only does it put the lives of children at risk, but it also hits where it hurts—your wallet and your driving record. With fines that can soar up to $250 and points that edge you closer to a license suspension, it’s a gamble with stakes too high for any driver to take.
So, the next time you see those flashing red lights, remember: patience is not only a virtue but a legal requirement. Because in the Garden State, the cost of haste could be more than just a ticket—it could be a child’s safety.
In New Jersey, the law requires drivers to stop for school buses under certain conditions to ensure the safety of children. The specific statute governing this is N.J.S.A. 39:4-128.1.
At our law offices, we handle passing a school bus ticket, driving without insurance ticket, leaving the scene of accident ticket, and more. Attorney Brett M. Rosen is an excellent choice for your passing a school bus ticket. Here’s why:
- Experience: Brett M. Rosen is a seasoned lawyer, licensed in both New York and New Jersey. He has been practicing law for over 8 years, specializing in criminal and civil litigation.
- Client Satisfaction: Rosen has received high praise from his clients for his professionalism and effectiveness. Clients have described him as “the example of a true winner” and “one of NJ’s finest attorneys”.
- Trial Skills: Rosen has demonstrated exceptional trial skills, standing ‘toe to toe’ at trial against current and former prosecutors, and certified criminal and civil trial attorneys. His aggressive questioning and thorough approach have been commended by clients.
- High-Profile Cases: Rosen has handled high-profile cases, including representing a celebrity on their domestic violence case and a Grammy-Award winning artist on their drug cases.
- Recognition: He has been recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers.
Contact us today for a consultation, or continue reading this guide that will provide you with a general overview of a passing a school bus ticket law in New Jersey, as well as some common defenses that may be available to you. We also handle driving without a license tickets, speeding tickets, and careless driving tickets.
Legal Requirements for Passing a School Bus Ticket
- Stopping Distance: Drivers must stop at least 25 feet away from a school bus that is picking up or dropping off children and has its red lights flashing.
- Proceeding: Drivers may only proceed after all children have reached a safe place or the bus has turned off its flashing red lights.
Penalties for Violation of Passing a School Bus Ticket in New Jersey
- Fines: Fines range from $100 to $250 for first offenses, with potential increases for subsequent violations.
- Points: A conviction results in five points on the driver’s license.
- Additional Consequences: Possible community service, increased insurance rates, and in rare cases, jail time.
In New Jersey, the penalties for passing a stopped school bus can escalate with subsequent offenses. While the law does not specify a maximum fine for repeat offenses, it does outline that the court may impose a heavy fine, add five motor vehicle points to the driver’s license, and potentially include jail time and community service. Additionally, repeat offenses could lead to increased insurance premiums and even a possible license suspension.
Defending Against a School Bus Passing Ticket in New Jersey
Passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey is a serious offense, but there are defenses available that can be used in court. This guide outlines potential defenses that may apply to your case.
Common Defenses
- Mistaken Identity: Arguing that the officer ticketed the wrong vehicle.
- Signal Malfunction: Claiming the school bus lights or stop sign were not functioning properly.
- Lack of Visibility: Citing poor weather conditions or obstructions that prevented seeing the bus signals.
- Emergency Situations: Demonstrating that an emergency required you to pass the bus.
Detailed Defense Strategies
- Challenge the Officer’s Observations: Present evidence that calls into question the accuracy of the police officer’s report.
- Examine the Bus’s Maintenance Records: Request records to show the bus’s signals were not maintained properly.
- Provide Witness Testimony: Bring forward witnesses who can corroborate your version of events.
- Use Photographic Evidence: Submit photos to support claims of obstructed views or signal malfunctions.
- Timing of Lights: Arguing that the bus activated its flashing lights too late for the driver to stop safely.
- Visibility: Challenging the visibility of the bus’s signals due to weather, obstructions, or malfunction.
Safety Tips
- Vigilance: Always be alert for school buses and prepared to stop.
- Speed: Reduce speed in school zones and near buses.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Bus Tickets in New Jersey
- Q: What is the fine for passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey?
- A: The fine for improperly passing a stopped school bus ranges from $102 to $252 for a first offense. Subsequent offenses may result in higher fines.
- Q: How many points will I get on my license for passing a school bus?
- A: Passing a stopped school bus in New Jersey will result in five points being added to your driving record.
- Q: Can I pass a school bus with flashing yellow lights?
- A: No, flashing yellow lights indicate that the bus is preparing to stop. You must slow down and prepare to stop as well.
- Q: What if the school bus is on the opposite side of a divided highway?
- A: If there is a raised median or physical barrier, you may pass at no more than 10 mph. However, if there is no barrier, you must stop at least 25 feet away from the bus.
- Q: Can a school bus driver report me for passing the bus?
- A: Yes, a school bus driver can report a vehicle that illegally passes the bus, and they often have the support of video evidence from cameras installed on the bus.
- Q: Are there defenses available if I’m ticketed for passing a school bus?
- A: Yes, common defenses include questioning the timing of the bus’s flashing lights, visibility issues, or proving an emergency situation required passing the bus.
- Q: What should I do if I receive a ticket for passing a school bus?
- A: It’s advisable to consult with a traffic attorney who can help you understand the charges and explore possible defenses.
- Q: What if I am separated from the school bus by a double-yellow line?
- A: Even if there is a double-yellow line, you must stop at least 25 feet away from the school bus when its red lights are flashing. You cannot proceed until the lights have stopped flashing and all children have reached a safe place.
- Q: Can I pass a school bus that is stopped at a railroad crossing?
- A: No, you must not pass a school bus that is stopped at a railroad crossing. School buses are required to stop at railroad crossings, and drivers must remain stopped until the bus has moved on.
- Q: Do school buses have cameras to catch drivers who pass them?
- A: Yes, many school buses are equipped with cameras to record vehicles that illegally pass them when they are stopped and displaying flashing red lights.
- Q: What if the school bus driver put the flashing lights on too late?
- A: If you can demonstrate that the school bus driver activated the flashing lights too late for you to stop safely, it may be a valid defense in court. However, this will likely require evidence to support your claim.
- Q: Can the school bus driver’s records be used in my defense?
- A: Yes, the maintenance and operation records of the school bus, including the timing of light activation, can be subpoenaed and used as part of your defense strategy.
- Q: What is the notice requirement for a school bus stopping in New Jersey?
- A: The law requires that drivers must have notice from at least 40 feet away that a school bus is stopping. If the bus’s signals were activated too late, it could be a point of contention in your defense.
Premier New Jersey Passing a School Bus Ticket Lawyer
Why Choose Brett M. Rosen for Your School Bus Ticket Defense?
When facing a school bus passing ticket in New Jersey, the stakes are high, and the penalties can be severe. That’s where Brett M. Rosen comes in—a seasoned criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of success. Here’s why you should consider Attorney Rosen for your defense:
- Experienced Advocate: With years of dedicated legal practice in New Jersey, Attorney Rosen has honed his skills in the courtroom, ensuring that your case is in capable hands.
- Client-Centric Approach: Known for his personalized attention to each case, Attorney Rosen treats your concerns as his own, offering tailored strategies to meet your unique legal needs.
- Impressive Track Record: Attorney Rosen’s history of securing favorable outcomes speaks volumes. Whether it’s reducing penalties or achieving case dismissals, his results are a testament to his legal acumen.
- Strategic Defense: Leveraging his deep understanding of New Jersey’s traffic laws, Attorney Rosen meticulously crafts defenses that challenge the prosecution’s claims, aiming for the best possible outcome.
- Peer Recognition: With accolades from clients and respect from peers, Attorney Rosen’s reputation as a formidable advocate is well-established in the legal community.
- Comprehensive Representation: Beyond just traffic tickets, Attorney Rosen’s expertise spans a wide range of criminal defense areas, ensuring comprehensive legal support throughout your case.
Choosing Brett M. Rosen means opting for a defense that combines knowledge, strategy, and a commitment to justice. Don’t let a school bus passing ticket disrupt your life—turn to a lawyer who will fight tirelessly on your behalf.
Contact our office today for a consultation.