A recent survey showed, of the 176 school bus drivers in Hillsborough County, 32 spotted vehicles illegally passing on the right side of the bus where students get on.

That’s why Hillsborough County Public Schools has partnered with the Florida Department of Transportation and the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office for the Stop on Red, Kids Ahead PSA campaign. It aims to educate students, families and commuters about the dangers of not respecting school buses and school zones.

“These are our children. They are easy targets,” said Corporal Kristy Udagawa. “They are easy victims of traffic fatalities because people are distracted. They’re speeding”.

If you pass a stopped school bus, you will be ticketed. The penalty for passing on the side where you can see the stop sign is $258. If you pass on the side where students get on and off the bus, that’s a mandatory court appearance where a judge could fine you even more.

Sheriff Chad Chronister says deputies are paying extra close attention and will randomly shadow buses to crack down on violators. “Thanks to our hardworking deputies, school crossing guards and Superintendent Jeff Eakins, together we will make sure your kids get to class and get home safe”.

Everyone is encouraged to be part of the Stop on Red, Kids Ahead campaign by posting videos and pictures on social media promoting school bus safety using #StoponRed4HCPS #SchoolBusSafety and tagging @HCPSschoolbus

Looking for school bus safety tips all year round? Check out Hillsborough County School's website or visit www.hcso.tampa.fl.us and search school bus safety.