Passing a School Bus Violation in Georgia: What Drivers Need to Know
Key Takeaways
- Penalties pack a punch. Passing a stopped school bus (or speeding in a school zone) can cost up to $1,000, add 6 points to your record, and—if you’re under 21—trigger an automatic license suspension. Insurance hikes often follow.
- School-zone speeding is a high-stakes gamble. Judges have limited leeway once you top 30 mph over the posted limit, and most prosecutors won’t cut a deal unless you have skilled counsel.
- Officer-issued vs. camera tickets matter. Attorney Scott Fortas defends citations written by officers in person; mailed stop-arm camera notices are payable only and cannot be contested in court.
- Certain drivers have even more to lose. CDL holders, teen drivers, repeat offenders, and out-of-state motorists risk job loss, higher insurance, or longer suspensions if they simply “pay and pray.”
- A seasoned traffic lawyer evens the odds. Scott Fortas routinely negotiates dismissals, point reductions, and alternative dispositions that protect your license and your wallet.
- Call Georgia Traffic Scott Fortas at 404-315-9936—24 hours a day, 7 days a week—for a FREE ticket review.
When it comes to protecting children in Georgia, few traffic laws are enforced more strictly than those involving school buses and school zones. If you’ve been cited for illegally passing a school bus or speeding in a school zone, it’s more than just a ticket; it’s a serious offense that can carry heavy penalties, points on your license, and even a lasting impact on your insurance rates.
Georgia law treats these violations with zero tolerance, especially when a police officer issues the citation in person. If you’ve received this type of ticket, Attorney Scott Fortas, an experienced Georgia traffic lawyer, is here to help you understand your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding Georgia’s School Bus Laws
What Does Georgia Law Say About Passing a School Bus?
Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-163, all vehicles must stop when a school bus is stopped to load or unload children—especially when the bus has its stop arm extended and red flashing lights activated.
Drivers must stop in both directions of a roadway unless:
- There is a divided highway with a physical median, or
- A center turn lane divides the highway.
Examples of When You Must Stop:
- Two-lane roads: All traffic must stop.
- Multi-lane roads without a median: All traffic must stop.
- Roads with a raised median or center lane barrier: Only traffic following the bus must stop.
Consequences of Passing a School Bus Ticket
If a police officer issues a ticket in person for this violation, you’re facing misdemeanor charges with the following possible penalties:
- Fine of up to $1,000
- Six points on your driving record
- Automatic license suspension for drivers under age 21
- Increased insurance premiums
These consequences are not only costly, but they can also affect your ability to drive for work, school, or family obligations.
Please Note: If you received a violation via school bus stop-arm camera, our firm does not handle these automated camera citations. We only represent clients cited in person by a law enforcement officer. If you receive a school bus stop-arm violation ticket in the mail, you cannot contest that, you must pay
Speeding in a School Zone in Georgia
School Zone Speed Limits
Speed limits in school zones are reduced during designated hours, typically when children are arriving at or leaving school. These zones are clearly marked with flashing signs and posted speed limits of usually 15 to 25 mph depending on the area.
Under O.C.G.A. § 40-14-8, exceeding the speed limit in a marked school zone can carry enhanced penalties, especially if children are present.
Penalties for Speeding in a School Zone
Speeding in a school zone is a serious offense in Georgia and can result in:
- Fines between $100 and $1,000
- Up to 6 points on your license depending on speed
- Increased insurance rates
- Mandatory court appearances
Many judges have limited discretion in school zone cases, particularly if your speed exceeded 30+ mph over the limit, or if it’s a repeat offense. Prosecutors are less likely to reduce charges without strong legal representation.
Why You Should Hire an Experienced Georgia Traffic Lawyer
School bus and school zone violations can seem like straightforward tickets, but the legal nuances are not always in your favor. These citations can result in lasting impacts, particularly for:
- CDL drivers
- Teen drivers or young adults under 21
- Drivers with prior violations
- Out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with Georgia laws
That’s why it’s essential to have an advocate who understands Georgia traffic laws, court procedures, and how to negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce fines, avoid points, and even keep your record clean.
Meet Attorney Scott Fortas: Georgia Traffic Lawyer
Attorney Scott Fortas is a seasoned traffic defense attorney who has helped thousands of drivers fight school bus, school zone, and speeding violations across the state of Georgia.
Why Clients Choose Scott Fortas:
- Experienced in courtrooms across Georgia
- Strong record of ticket reductions and dismissals
- Dedicated to helping drivers protect their licenses
- Straightforward, no-nonsense advice
- Personalized service, not a call center
If you’ve received a school bus violation or speeding in a school zone ticket issued by a police officer, reach out today for a free consultation.
📞 Call 404-315-9936, 24/7 for a free ticket review. Or submit your ticket information now and we’ll get back to you.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Bus and School Zone Violations
1. What happens if I ignore a school bus ticket in Georgia?
Ignoring the ticket can lead to a license suspension, additional fines, and even a failure to appear if you miss your required court date.
2. Can I plead “no contest” to a school bus or school zone ticket?
You may be allowed to plead no contest in some jurisdictions, but this typically still results in fines and points unless your attorney negotiates otherwise.
3. I didn’t see the bus until it was too late, can that be a defense?
While this may explain the situation, it’s not typically a valid legal defense. However, an attorney can explore whether signage, obstructions, or unclear road conditions affected your case.
4. I was cited but the bus was on the other side of the median—what should I do?
Georgia law makes exceptions for certain divided highways. An attorney can help determine if the road type qualifies for an exemption.
5. Can a traffic lawyer get my ticket dismissed?
Yes, in some cases, Attorney Fortas may be able to negotiate for a dismissal, reduction of charges, or defensive driving options to avoid points and insurance hikes.
Take the First Step—Protect Your Driving Record Today
Don’t let a school bus or school zone violation turn into a long-term problem. With Attorney Scott Fortas by your side, you’ll have a knowledgeable advocate who can help you:
- Navigate court procedures
- Negotiate fines and penalties
- Avoid points and license suspensions
- Preserve your insurance rates
