LASALLE PARISH, La. – The LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office is reminding motorists to remain alert and obey school bus safety laws following concerns about drivers illegally passing stopped school buses throughout the parish.
Sheriff Lane Windham and the department issued the reminder to emphasize the importance of protecting children as they travel to and from school, particularly during morning and afternoon bus routes.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, concerns have been raised about vehicles passing school buses while their red warning lights are flashing and stop signs are extended.
Officials stressed that motorists must stop when required by law and remain stopped while children are boarding or exiting buses.
Children may need to cross the roadway when entering or leaving a school bus, making it especially important for drivers to pay attention to their surroundings and avoid distractions.
The Sheriff’s Office reminded motorists that illegally passing a stopped school bus can result in significant fines, driver’s license penalties and other legal consequences.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down in areas where school buses operate, watch carefully for children entering or crossing roadways, and put away cell phones and other distractions.
The department emphasized that even a brief moment of impatience or inattention could have devastating consequences for a child, family and the community.
Sheriff Windham and the LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office are asking all motorists to exercise patience and caution whenever they encounter a school bus.
The department stressed that ensuring children arrive at school and return home safely should remain a priority for everyone traveling on parish roadways.
Officials hope the reminder will encourage greater awareness and compliance with school bus safety laws, helping prevent accidents and protect students throughout LaSalle Parish.