Abu Dhabi Police has reminded motorists to come to a complete stop when a school bus extends its side-mounted ‘Stop’ arm, warning that drivers who ignore the rule face a Dh1,000 fine and 10 traffic balck points.
Motorists must also keep a distance of at least 5 metres from the school bus while children are getting on or off.
Police said drivers must not attempt to overtake or pass a school bus when its stop arm is extended, as children may be crossing the road.
The five-metre safety rule is designed to give pupils enough room to cross safely while ensuring they remain visible to approaching motorists and the school bus driver.
Extra caution needed around schools
The reminder comes as schools reopen and thousands of school buses return to roads across Abu Dhabi, leading to heavier traffic around residential communities, school campuses and pick-up and drop-off points.
Police urged drivers to be particularly careful during the busy morning and afternoon school runs, when traffic around schools and buses increases significantly.
Motorists have been advised to slow down, stay alert and follow all traffic rules when approaching school buses.
Dh1,000 fine and 10 black points
Ignoring a school bus stop sign is a serious traffic violation, Abu Dhabi Police said.
Drivers who fail to stop when the bus extends its stop arm can be fined Dh1,000 and receive 10 traffic points.
Police stressed that keeping children safe on the road is a shared responsibility, calling on motorists to remain patient and avoid risky manoeuvres around school buses.
With thousands of children travelling to and from school every day, even a few seconds of caution can make a crucial difference.
The message from police is simple: when a school bus displays its Stop arm, stop, keep your distance and wait until it is safe to move again.
