COLUMBUS – The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding motorists that school buses and students are returning to Ohio roadways over the next few weeks and everyone should be observant and use caution when traveling this fall.

Last year in Ohio there were 2,260 crashes involving school buses, causing seven fatalities to other motorists and 992 injuries to other motorists and school bus occupants. This marks a 250 percent increase in fatalities from 2004.

Motorists can do their part by starting to think about school bus safety the moment the vehicle is started and prepare for school bus stops by allowing extra time when leaving home. When backing out of a garage or driveway, they should watch for children walking to the school bus.

In addition, it is important children be taught to wait until the bus stops, the door opens, and the driver indicates it is clear before boarding the bus. Children should never walk behind a bus and should stay at least 10 steps away from the side and front of the bus.

Motorists are also reminded to keep these tips in mind when driving:

The Patrol's Motor Vehicle Inspection Teams inspect over 20,000 Ohio school buses at least twice each year, once prior to the beginning of the school year and once during the school year.

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06-163