Southfield Police and Southfield Public Schools are partnering to launch a new program focusing on school bus safety.
Operation Safe Kids will begin in mid-November, officials say.
The police department will deploy officers in unmarked cars to catch and ticket drivers who violate school bus safety laws.
The violation for passing a school bus flashing its red lights is a $335 fine and three points on the driver's license.
“In light of recent tragedies involving children at bus stops, the police department has collaborated with our school system to enforce school bus safety and bring greater awareness to motorists,” stated Acting Police Chief Brian Bassett. “Our children’s safety is our greatest priority.”
Drivers should slow down when the bus's overhead lights flash yellow.
Officials say drivers should also stop at least 20 feet away from buses, unless driving in the opposite direction on a divided highway.
