Local school divisions warn drivers not to pass stopped school buses

Madi Kirkman

With the 2025-26 academic year underway, school divisions in the Lynchburg area are reminding drivers to stop for stopped school buses.

Lynchburg City Schools reminded drivers they are required to stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights and an extended stop sign.

Passing a stopped school bus is reckless driving, a class one misdemeanor, the Bedford County Sheriff’s Office said in a recent social media video.

Drivers must stop no matter which way they are approaching a school bus and must remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus moves again. Although drivers aren’t required to stop for school buses on the opposite side of a median or barrier, they should still remain alert for students exiting the bus and crossing into their lanes, the Virginia De