Quakertown Borough Police Department in partnership with the Quakertown Community School District have successfully launched Bus Patrol, a School Bus Safety Program to make roads safer for all students.

All school buses in the district are now equipped with safety technology, including stop-arm enforcement cameras designed to detect vehicles that illegally pass stopped school buses. This safety initiative seeks to curb dangerous motorist behavior around school buses and make the journey to and from school safer for all student riders.

How the Program Works

The School Bus Safety Program combines education with enforcement to effectively change motorist behavior over time and create a culture of awareness and responsibility around school buses.

Before the first ticket is even issued, QCSD is running an extensive PSA campaign. This campaign will remind motorists of school bus stopping laws and teach children road safety tips for getting on and off the bus.

Modernizing School Buses

In addition to stop-arm enforcement cameras, the fleet is now fully equipped with additional features to improve safety for students and drivers.

This includes:

• 360° safety cameras inside and outside the bus

• GPS tracking

• Emergency response solutions

This technology is all included as part of the program at zero cost to the school districts and taxpayers.

What Happens If You Illegally Pass a Stopped School Bus

All school buses that transport QCSD students are equipped with safety technology, including stop-arm enforcement cameras. Cameras on the side of school buses help capture violation events and vehicle license plate numbers.

The violation is reviewed by law enforcement. Once approved, a notice of violation is sent to the registered vehicle owner by mail.

In Pennsylvania, a first-time stop-arm violation witnessed by a stop-arm enforcement carries a fine of $300 and no points.

In addition to the financial deterrent, violators learn about the potential dangers of their actions. Offenders can call the program's toll-free number ( 1-877-504-7080 ) and speak with a representative, who can review the video evidence and help them understand the dangers of illegal passing. Services are offered in both English and Spanish.

Data from other safety programs demonstrates that 98% of first-time offenders do not receive a second ticket, and 95% of drivers do not contest their ticket after seeing video evidence of their violation.

How to View and Pay Violations?

Visit www.alertbus.com and mail violations to the following address:

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
School Bus Safety Program
PO Box 4187
Allentown, PA 18105