Knoxville Police Chief Sterling Owen announced a special traffic enforcement effort to address growing problems of motorists who fail to stop for school buses. The special enforcement effort will be utilized throughout the city.

Chief Owen said the department has seen a recent increase in the number of complaints reporting motorists who are failing to stop for school busses as they pickup and drop off children. The complaints have been from both citizens and bus drivers.

Chief Owen said, "The law clearly states that vehicles must stop for a school bus when children are either entering or exiting the bus. Officers will aggressively seek out motorists who fail to abide by the law and place the safety of children at risk. In addition to receiving a citation, the State of Tennessee will place up to six points on the violator's driving record which will increase their insurance rates and, based on the offenders driving history, could result in the loss of their driver's license." 

During the enforcement effort officers will ride on school buses looking for violators. Once a violation has been observed the officer will radio a nearby patrol unit who will then conduct the traffic stop and issue the violator a citation.

Chief Owen said, "With more than 56,000 school students and 330 buses on the road everyday, it is imperative that every motorist slow down and stop for school buses that are either picking up or dropping off students." 
 
"Nothing is more important than the safety of our children. Everyone must do their part to help ensure that each child arrives home safely each day," Chief Owen concluded.