Addy’s Law and What it Means for Georgia Drivers

Big changes are in store for Georgia drivers who unlawfully pass school buses. A new law, Addy's law, was passed earlier this year in an effort to enhance the safety of school children loading and unloading buses. At the Law Office of Richard S. Lawson, we are dedicated to knowing all the intricacies of Georgia law and how we can help you if you find yourself in a situation that needs our expertise. We have been exclusively defending Georgia drivers for 30 years. Call now for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Georgia's New School Bus Law Effective July 1, 2024  

Stricter Penalties: Previously, passing a stopped school bus was considered a misdemeanor offense, carrying penalties of up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $1,000. Under the new law, this violation is now classified as a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature. The fines have increased to a minimum of $1,000, and offenders still face up to 12 months in jail. Additionally, drivers will incur six points on their license for this violation.

• Drivers Under 21: An offense carrying four or more points will result in a six-month license suspension.
• Drivers Over 21: Accumulating 15 or more points within any 24-month period will lead to a one-year license suspension.

Therefore, accruing six points for passing a school bus can significantly impact a driver's life.

Enhanced Penalties for Civil Violations/Mailed Tickets for Unlawfully Passing a School Bus: Prior to July 1, 2024, drivers may have received a ticket via mail for unlawfully passing a school bus. This has been a civil infraction punishable by a fine of $250.00. However, the new law going into effect July 1, will increase the penalty from $250.00 to $1,000.00. Right now, for a first offense, the civil infraction does not carry any points or go on your motor vehicle record. However after July 1, upon a second or subsequent violation, the new law allows for law enforcement to notify the driver's car  insurance company of the violations.

Mandatory Stop-Arm Cameras: Another key feature of this law is the requirement for all school buses to be equipped with stop-arm cameras. These cameras will capture footage of vehicles that illegally pass a stopped school bus, providing law enforcement with the evidence needed to issue citations and ensure accountability. It is crucial for Georgia drivers to be aware that even in the absence of a visible law enforcement officer, they can still be charged under this statute based on camera evidence.

School System Requirements: Under the new law, school districts are directed to consider not having bus stops where a student would have to cross the roadway with a speed limit equal to or greater than 40 miles an hour. This means that some school districts will have to re-draw bus routes to be in compliance. In addition, the public school system shall ensure that any stop at which a student is required to enter or exit the school bus is located upon the same side of the roadway as the door to the bus

Call for Help Today

If you are pulled over or find yourself charged under this new law, it is critical to contact an experienced Georgia unlawful passing of a school bus lawyer immediately. Our offices are open 24/7 to answer your call, and with decades of experience defending Georgia drivers, we are ready to assist with your case. Don't delay—call now for professional legal assistance.