Gloucester, NJ- As the new school year progresses, the Gloucester Police Department warns motorists about illegally passing school buses while stopping and picking up students. The department says that Patrol officers will begin randomly following school buses on their way to school to ensure students arrive safely.
A warning was issued for those who habitually pass school buses or engage in distracted driving practices.
“Our Gloucester Township Police Patrol and School Resource Officers periodically and randomly follow our buses on their way to school and their way home to help ensure our students are safe,” the department said today. “Distracted driving may result in passing a school bus with its red lights on could place our children in harm’s way. Having the officer follow the bus also provides an extra layer of security.”
The fine for passing a school bus to New Jersey is $100 for the first offense and no less than $250 for each additional offense. Additionally, passing a school bus is a 5-point offense under New Jersey state law. These additional points could put drivers with previously accrued points into a situation to pass the six-point surcharge law or, worse, above the12 point automatic license suspension law.
In addition to fines and points, drivers would also face court penalties and increases in their insurance rates.