Driving at Bus Stops

Safe traffic flow at bus stops

Consideration for buses and passengers

Correct behaviour at bus stops ensures road safety for all road users and passengers.

Regular buses

Drivers approaching a stop in a built-up area where a bus has halted must reduce speed and, if necessary, stop.

This applies if the bus driver signals to move on, so the bus can leave the stop.

The bus driver, however, is not exempt from exercising particular care to avoid danger.

Important points:

Reduce speed at bus stops
Be ready to stop if necessary
Follow the bus driver's signals
Show consideration for passengers
Watch for people crossing the road

School buses

Drivers approaching a school bus that has stopped to set down or pick up passengers must be extra attentive.

The same applies when the school bus leaves the stop.

The driver must pay particular attention to whether children are about to step onto the roadway or are already on it.

Pay special attention to:

Children crossing the road in front of or behind the school bus
Children running unexpectedly onto the roadway
Children's unpredictable behaviour
Reduced visibility because of the bus
Children who may not see you coming

Safety advice at bus stops

Reduce speedDrive slowly past bus stops

Be extra attentiveKeep an eye on passengers and children

Be ready to stopIf the bus driver signals

Legal basis

The Road Traffic Act
These rules are laid down in the Road Traffic Act to ensure road safety at bus stops and protect passengers, especially children.

Breaching these rules can result in a fine and affect your driving safety.

Important points to remember

For regular buses:

Reduce speed
Follow the bus driver's signals
Be ready to stop
Show consideration for passengers

For school buses:

Extra attentiveness required
Watch for children crossing the road
Children's unpredictable behaviour
Reduced visibility near the bus

Remember: Road safety at bus stops is about protecting the most vulnerable road users!

More traffic rules

Click a topic to learn more about specific traffic rules

Essential traffic rules

Fundamental rules for safe driving

Speed / Speed limits

Speed regulations and limits

Alcohol & Drugs

Rules about impairment and medication

Meeting & Overtaking

Rules for meeting and overtaking

Motorway & Expressway

Special rules for motorways

Placement & Turning

Driving, turning and lane changes

Signals & Signs

Signals, signs and lights

Right of way

Right of way and priority rules

Stopping & Parking

Rules for stopping and parking