OPP Warn of 40 Collisions with School Buses in Ontario: What Drivers Need to Know

May 14, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has issued a concerning warning about a sharp increase in collisions involving school buses, with 40 incidents already reported this year. The alarming rise is attributed to impatient and aggressive driving, as drivers continue to ignore critical traffic laws when it comes to school buses. These collisions not only endanger children’s lives but also lead to significant legal consequences for those who fail to follow the rules of the road. At Deutschmann de Koning, we believe it is crucial to spread awareness and offer guidance on how to stay safe, especially in areas where school buses are present.

The OPP’s Warning: A Growing Concern

According to the OPP, the spike in school bus collisions this year can largely be attributed to drivers who fail to stop for school buses, particularly those who grow impatient and try to pass buses while they’re picking up or dropping off children. The OPP has stressed the importance of adhering to traffic laws that mandate that all vehicles must stop when a school bus’s stop arm is extended and its red lights are flashing—no matter which direction you're coming from.

The issue has reached such a point that the OPP has issued a public safety warning, urging drivers to slow down, be patient, and pay extra attention when driving in areas with school buses. In 2024, the 40 incidents represent a significant increase in bus-related collisions, which have been linked to serious injuries, including broken bones, concussions, and in some cases, fatalities.

Legal Implications of School Bus Collisions

When a driver collides with a school bus or fails to stop when required, the consequences can be severe. In Ontario, failing to stop for a school bus when its red lights are flashing can result in hefty fines, demerit points, and even license suspension.

• Fines and Penalties: A first offense can carry fines ranging from $400 to $2,000, and six demerit points can be added to the driver’s record.
• License Suspension: In cases where a driver is found guilty of dangerous or reckless driving, they may face a license suspension of up to two years, which can severely impact their ability to work and commute.
• Injuries and Liability: If an accident occurs, the driver may be held liable for injuries to pedestrians, passengers, and even the school bus driver. For injured parties, pursuing compensation through legal channels is critical to cover medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

At Deutschmann de Koning, our personal injury lawyers specialize in helping individuals who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents, including school bus crashes. If you or a loved one has been harmed, we can help you navigate your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Impatience and Aggressive Driving: The Root Cause

Impatience appears to be a major contributing factor in the increase of school bus collisions. Drivers who are in a hurry often fail to stop for school buses, either choosing to pass them illegally or ignoring the stop signals altogether.

According to the OPP, this aggressive behavior typically occurs when a driver is running late, distracted, or simply unwilling to wait for a few extra moments for children to safely board or exit the bus. Unfortunately, this impatience has dire consequences, as it compromises the safety of children crossing busy roads. Children often behave unpredictably around school buses, and when drivers are too impatient to stop, they put these children at risk.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

The OPP’s warning serves as a vital reminder to drivers about the importance of staying vigilant around school buses. There are several key steps you can take to avoid collisions and ensure the safety of children:

1. Obey the School Bus Stop Sign: Always stop when you see a school bus with its red lights flashing. This applies to vehicles traveling in both directions. The fine for not stopping can be steep, and the safety of children is paramount.
2. Reduce Speed in School Zones: Always obey posted speed limits in school zones. Slow down when you approach a school bus or a crosswalk, as children may dart across the road without warning.
3. Avoid Distractions: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Avoid using your phone or other distractions while driving, especially near schools and bus stops.
4. Be Patient: It’s essential to exercise patience when driving near school buses. Children need time to safely enter or exit the bus, and speeding or passing the bus can result in tragic accidents.
5. Drive Defensively: Even if you're doing everything right, stay alert to other drivers who may not be following the rules. Maintain a safe distance from school buses and be prepared to stop suddenly if necessary.
6. Watch for Children Near Bus Stops: Children may not always be paying attention when crossing the street. Be especially cautious when driving in residential areas or near bus stops.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a School Bus Accident

If you are involved in a school bus collision, your first priority should be to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Call emergency services immediately, especially if anyone is injured. If possible, take photos of the scene and gather witness statements.

Once immediate concerns are handled, it's crucial to consult with a personal injury lawyer. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a school bus collision, the legal process can be complex. At Deutschmann de Koning, we offer a free consultation to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Contact Deutschmann de Koning Personal Injury Lawyers

At Deutschmann de Koning, we are committed to protecting the rights of individuals injured in accidents. If you’ve been involved in a school bus collision, contact us today for a consultation. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.

Final Thoughts

The OPP’s warning about the rise in school bus collisions highlights the need for increased awareness and caution on Ontario’s roads. Drivers must take responsibility to stop for school buses and follow traffic laws, especially when children’s safety is at stake. Let’s all do our part to protect the children of Ontario and ensure that our roads are safer for everyone. If you or someone you love has been injured in a school bus accident, reach out to us for guidance and support.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.