The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is using National School Bus Safety Week, October 19-23, to remind drivers, parents and students that Alabama school bus safety depends on everyone on the road. Alabama recorded 589 school bus-related crashes in 2025, and 411 have been reported so far this year.
ALEA joined the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in promoting this year’s theme, “Safe Rides, Everyday Heroes.” The week falls in the third full week of October and highlights safe driving habits, student awareness and the work of school bus drivers.
Crash numbers in Alabama
The figures come from the Center for Advanced Public Safety at the University of Alabama, which provided them to ALEA. The 589 crashes in 2025 included two fatalities. The 411 crashes reported so far in 2026 have caused no deaths.
ALEA Troopers investigated 138 of the school bus-related crashes in 2025 and 81 so far in 2026.
What ALEA leaders said
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said the responsibility reaches beyond the bus driver.
“Every child deserves a safe trip to school and back home, and that responsibility extends far beyond the school bus driver. It includes parents, students and motorists, making safety a priority. As we recognize National School Bus Safety Week, I encourage every driver to slow down, eliminate distractions and remain alert, especially in school zones and near bus stops. A few extra seconds of patience can make all the difference in protecting a child’s life.”
Colonel Jeremy Burkett, director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, said the issue lasts all year.
“School bus safety is not just a concern during one week of the year. It is a responsibility every time we get behind the wheel,” Burkett said. “Our Troopers see firsthand how quickly a moment of inattention, or an unsafe decision can lead to devastating consequences. When you approach a school bus, slow down, pay attention and be prepared to stop. Never attempt to pass a school bus with its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. No destination or appointment is worth putting a child’s life at risk.”
Rules for drivers
ALEA asked motorists to stay alert during morning and afternoon school transportation hours. The agency listed these reminders:
- Slow down and prepare to stop when a school bus shows flashing yellow warning lights.
- Stop when a bus shows flashing red lights and extends its stop arm. Alabama law requires it.
- Do not pass a stopped school bus illegally, because children may be entering or exiting the bus and crossing the road.
- Stay stopped until the bus withdraws its stop signal and it is safe to continue.
On roads with fewer than four lanes, traffic in both directions must stop for a bus displaying its stop signal. On roads with four or more lanes, only drivers traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.
A first conviction for unlawfully passing a stopped school bus carries a fine of $150 to $300. Repeat convictions bring higher fines and additional penalties.
Tips for parents and students
NHTSA recommends that parents and caregivers go over these practices with their children:
- Arrive early: Get to the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled pickup.
- Wait safely: Stand away from the road. Wait until the bus stops completely, the door opens and the driver signals it is safe to board.
- Use caution boarding and exiting: Hold the handrails to prevent falls and do not rush.
- Stay visible: Never walk behind a bus. When crossing in front, stay at least 10 feet away, make eye contact with the driver and wait for the driver’s signal.
- Stay alert: Avoid cellphones and headphones near the bus stop.
ALEA encouraged all Alabamians to recognize their part in protecting students on the road as the week continues.