Why School Districts Are Investing in Bus Stop Arm Camera Programs

School districts across the U.S. are turning to bus stop arm camera programs to address a growing and dangerous problem: drivers illegally passing stopped school buses. These violations put students at serious risk, especially during the most vulnerable moments of their journey, when they’re boarding or exiting the bus.

A Widespread but Under-Enforced Safety Problem

According to the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services (NASDPTS), in 2023, more than 43.5 million illegal school bus passings occurred in the U.S. Most of these violations go undetected and unenforced due to limited police resources and the decentralized nature of school transportation.

Why Enforcement Matters

Without consistent consequences, drivers are less likely to change their behavior. Automated enforcement helps districts:

• Detect violations at scale
• Ensure more consistent accountability
• Improve driver compliance over time

Districts that implement camera programs report a significant decrease in repeat offenses. Verra Mobility’s Stop Guard™ program shows that 98% of drivers who receive one citation never receive a second.

Community and Board-Level Benefits

Installing bus stop arm cameras isn’t just about enforcement; it’s about creating safer, smarter communities. Key benefits for school districts include:

• Increased safety for students at pickup and drop-off
• Public education and awareness about school bus laws
• Data-driven reports to demonstrate impact
• No upfront costs, thanks to violator-funded programs
• Positive public perception of proactive safety measures

These programs are often well-received by school boards, parents, and transportation directors because they demonstrate a clear investment in student safety.

About Verra Mobility’s Stop Guard™ System

As a leader in smart mobility solutions, Verra Mobility offers its Stop Guard™ program as a turnkey, violator-funded solution for school districts. We handle everything from camera installation and event processing to citation issuance, legal support, and community engagement.

Want to see how Stop Guard™ can help your district? Request a demo or contact our team to learn more.