Drivers in Cherokee County and across metro Atlanta are being warned: illegally passing a stopped school bus could now cost you big—up to $1,000 per violation.
According to local officials, the crackdown is tied to Georgia’s strengthened school bus safety law, often referred to as “Addy’s Law,” which significantly increased penalties in an effort to better protect students. The law was passed after a tragic incident involving a child who was struck by a driver ignoring a school bus stop signal, prompting lawmakers to take stricter action.
Under the updated rules, drivers who fail to stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended can face a minimum $1,000 fine, along with additional consequences. In some cases, the violation can also lead to points on a driver’s license and even possible jail time, as the offense is now considered a high and aggravated misdemeanor.
Officials say enforcement is increasing thanks to stop-arm cameras installed on school buses, which can automatically capture vehicles that break the law—even if a police officer isn’t present. These cameras are expected to play a major role in identifying violators and issuing citations throughout the county.
Authorities are urging drivers to pay close attention on the roads, especially during school hours. In Georgia, traffic in both directions must stop for a school bus unless there is a physical median separating lanes.
With stricter penalties now in place, local leaders say the message is clear: slow down, stay alert, and stop for school buses—because risking a child’s safety could now come with a serious financial and legal cost.
(Photo by John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images)
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