KRS 189.370: Failure to Stop for a School Bus

What Is KRS 189.370?

KRS 189.370 requires Kentucky drivers to stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights. Passing a stopped school bus puts children at risk and is treated very seriously by Kentucky courts. People in Lexington and Louisville face these significant penalties.

What the Statute Requires

When a school bus stops with flashing red lights, all traffic in both directions must stop until:

The lights are turned off
The stop arm is retracted
The bus begins to move

Exceptions

Vehicles traveling in opposite directions on a highway separated by a physical median or unpaved area need not stop.

Penalties Under KRS 189.370

Fines from $100-200 (1st offense)
$200-500 for subsequent offenses
License suspension possible
6 points on driver’s license

Defenses Available

Bus wasn’t actually displaying flashing lights
You were on opposite side of divided highway
Bus had already retracted stop arm
Mistaken identity

Don’t Pay Without Calling Us

School bus violations carry serious consequences. Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

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