School Starts Tomorrow, Be Aware of New Bus Lights
Wednesday, August 31st, 2016 -- 8:00 AM
-The new school year begins tomorrow for most local schools and drivers will notice that Wisconsin school buses have begun using an eight-light system, thanks to a law that was passed earlier this year.The Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards Section 108, added four additional warning lights to school buses in 1968. The additional lamps are amber in color and inboard of the red warning lights; intended to signal an upcoming stop to drivers and overridden by the red lights and stop sign as the entry door is opened.
Most buses in Wisconsin will be switched to this new light system, depending on the model year of the school bus. The 8-light system incorporates the use of amber lights. The amber lights will flash before the red lights as a 'Warning' that the bus is preparing to stop, similar to a traffic light. The additional lights alert vehicles traveling around a school bus that they should prepare to stop. As Wisconsin begins another school year, watch for school buses with amber and red lights flashing.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.