UK drivers face new legislation tightening rules around school buses

Starting in September, strict new traffic regulations will come into force in Northern Ireland, making it illegal to overtake stationary school buses.

The proposal, recently introduced by Northern Ireland’s Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins, aims to enhance safety around school transport and protect children when they board or disembark from school buses.

The legislation follows several tragic incidents involving injuries to children near school buses. Minister Kimmins emphasised the importance of the initiative, stating, “Road safety is a priority for me, and recent tragic events have highlighted the crucial need for all of us to be mindful of children’s safety when boarding or leaving school buses.”

In addition to the ban on overtaking school buses, the legislative changes also include stricter requirements for the proper use of bus signage and lighting. Drivers failing to comply with these regulations will be subject to fines.

Minister Kimmins explained: “Too many families have experienced their worlds shattering after receiving the worst possible news when a loved one sets off on what should have been a routine journey. It is my intention to introduce legislation to help prevent further tragedies.”

To support this legislation, the ministry is also launching campaigns to raise public awareness about road safety, including the implementation of 20 mph zones around schools and a new graduated driver licensing scheme.

Minister Kimmins further urged all road users to take daily responsibility by being considerate, reducing speed, and avoiding mobile phone use while driving. “We all have a shared responsibility as road users. Let’s ensure the message of road safety reaches as many people as possible by discussing it with family and friends,” she stressed.

The new law will take effect in September, and drivers in Northern Ireland are advised to familiarise themselves with these upcoming changes to avoid fines and enhance road safety.

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