SMITHVILLE, Tenn. — The Smithville Police Department is tightening enforcement on drivers speeding in school zones or illegally passing stopped school buses. Offenders will face citations or misdemeanor charges, officials confirmed.
According to Police Chief Mark Collins, reports of vehicles speeding and passing buses with flashing lights and extended stop arms have increased, particularly along West Broad Street.
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“In Tennessee, it is illegal to pass a school bus that has stopped to load or unload children,” Chief Collins said. “Violators face a Class A misdemeanor, fines up to $1,000, and repeat offenders will face harsher penalties. Our department is stepping up enforcement, and citations or arrests will be made if violations are observed.”
Key Tennessee School Bus Laws
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Stop for flashing red lights: Drivers must stop at least 30 feet away from the bus and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing.
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Stop for extended stop arm: When the stop arm is out, vehicles in both directions must stop and remain stopped until it retracts.
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Divided highways rule: On roads with a median or barrier, traffic on the opposite side may proceed, but drivers on the same side as the bus must stop.
Earlier this year, the Smithville Aldermen approved a contract with a Chattanooga company to install a camera-monitored system to catch motorists speeding in school zones. However, the new system has not yet been implemented.
Police urge all drivers to follow school bus safety laws to protect students and avoid severe penalties.
