COLUMBUS, Ohio (WOWO) — As school buses return to Ohio roads, state officials are reminding drivers that when a bus activates its red warning lights and stop arm, stop means stop.

The Ohio Traffic Safety Office, or OTSO, is renewing its public awareness campaign urging motorists to follow one of the state’s most important school bus safety laws: Drivers must stop when a school bus is picking up or dropping off students.

The Stop Means Stop campaign began in 2024 following a recommendation from Gov. Mike DeWine’s School Bus Safety Working Group.

The initiative provides schools, law enforcement agencies and community organizations with posters, fact sheets, rack cards, social media materials and an educational video designed to reinforce school bus safety messages across Ohio.

Data from the Ohio State Highway Patrol shows why officials continue to focus on the issue.

Troopers issued 879 citations in 2025 to drivers accused of illegally passing a stopped school bus. That was a 6% decrease from 2024, but officials say the continued number of violations demonstrates the need for drivers to remain alert around school buses.

Since 2021, Ohio has recorded 6,414 traffic crashes involving school buses on state roadways.

Six of those crashes were fatal, resulting in six deaths. One of those victims was a school-aged student.

The number of fatal and serious-injury crashes involving school buses also increased last year. Ohio recorded 17 such crashes in 2025, compared with 14 in 2024.

Officials say another driver is responsible for the vast majority of the most serious school bus crashes.

According to OTSO, 85% of fatal and serious-injury crashes involving school buses are caused by other drivers.

As students head back to classrooms and buses begin making their regular morning and afternoon routes, OTSO is asking motorists to slow down and pay particular attention around school zones and bus stops.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid distractions and watch for children who may be walking toward or away from a bus stop.

The most important reminder is straightforward: When a school bus activates its red lights and stop arm, drivers must stop.

That requirement applies to vehicles traveling in both directions on two-lane roads and on roads with a center turning lane.

Motorists should also slow down in school zones and remain alert for children who may unexpectedly enter or cross the roadway.

The campaign’s message comes as school transportation activity increases statewide, putting more buses, students and drivers on Ohio roads during the morning and afternoon commute.

Officials say following the law is about more than avoiding a traffic citation. A stopped school bus means children may be entering or leaving the vehicle, making the moments around a bus stop particularly vulnerable to a passing vehicle.

OTSO and the Ohio State Highway Patrol are urging drivers to make school bus safety part of their daily routine as the new school year gets underway.

The message from state officials is simple: Slow down. Stay focused. And when the stop arm is out, stop means stop.