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Public school implements school bus safety system

In an effort to improve student safety at school bus stops, Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) in Georgia, US, is introducing an automated stop-arm enforcement program utilising a safety camera system that monitors and detects drivers who illegally pass school buses, endangering the lives of children as they enter and exit the bus. Developed by Redflex, the Student Guardian safety camera system consists of a single enclosure installed approximately six feet behind the stop-arm, monitoring traffic in both
August 1, 2013 Read time: 2 mins
Redflex Student Guardian external bus camera
In an effort to improve student safety at school bus stops, Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) in Georgia, US, is introducing an automated stop-arm enforcement program utilising a safety camera system that monitors and detects drivers who illegally pass school buses, endangering the lives of children as they enter and exit the bus.

Developed by 112 Redflex, the Student Guardian safety camera system consists of a single enclosure installed approximately six feet behind the stop-arm, monitoring traffic in both directions. The system is activated when the bus' stop arm and amber lights are displayed, and children are entering or exiting the bus. Evidence of potential violations, including video and photos, is submitted to local law enforcement to determine whether a citation is warranted.

GCPS plans to initiate the program with the installation of 100 school buses by Labour Day. It expects to equip up to 40 per cent of its 1,900 school bus fleet later in the school year.

According to a 2012 study by the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, bus drivers on about 100,000 buses in 28 states reported more than 88,000 illegal passes in one day, representing more than 16 million illegal passes throughout the school year.

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