Last Updated on July 21, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Texas School Bus Law: Understanding Transportation Code Sec. 545.2535 – Stopping at Railroad Crossings
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For school bus drivers in Texas, safety is paramount, and strict adherence to traffic laws is crucial. One such critical regulation is Texas Transportation Code Section 545.2535, which mandates specific stopping procedures for school buses at railroad grade crossings. Understanding this law is vital for school bus operators, and a violation can lead to significant consequences.
At The Beltz Law Group, we recognize that even experienced drivers can face unexpected traffic citations. If you are a school bus driver who has been cited for a violation of this statute, our experienced legal team is here to help you understand the charges and build a strong defense.
Texas Transportation Code Sec. 545.2535: School Buses to Stop at All Railroad Grade Crossings
This section of the Texas Transportation Code outlines the precise requirements for school buses when approaching railroad tracks. The intent is clear: to ensure the utmost safety for children being transported.
Here’s a breakdown of the key provisions:
Sec. 545.2535. SCHOOL BUSES TO STOP AT ALL RAILROAD GRADE CROSSINGS.
(a) This section applies to the operator of a school bus carrying one or more school children. This clarifies that the law specifically applies to drivers of school buses when they have students on board.
(b) Before crossing a railroad grade crossing, the operator shall stop the vehicle not closer than 15 feet or farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail. This subsection sets precise distance requirements for the stop. The bus must stop within a specific range:
-
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Not closer than 15 feet: This ensures the bus is far enough from the tracks to avoid being hit by an approaching train or by debris.
- Not farther than 50 feet: This ensures the driver has a clear view of the tracks and can hear any approaching train.
(c) While stopped, the operator shall: This outlines the actions the driver must take while the bus is stopped:
- (1) listen and look in both directions along the track for an approaching train or other on-track equipment; and The driver must actively check for trains, using both sight and hearing. This emphasizes the importance of vigilance.
- (2) open the exterior passenger door and the operator’s window. Opening the door and window serves multiple safety purposes:
- Improved Hearing: It allows the driver to hear an approaching train more clearly, especially if the bus’s engine or other ambient noise might obscure the sound.
- Improved Visibility: It can provide a slightly better visual angle, though the primary purpose is usually auditory.
- Emergency Egress: In a rare emergency, it could potentially facilitate a quicker exit, though the primary focus here is on detection.
(d) The operator may not cross the track until the operator can do so safely. This is a general safety directive, reinforcing that the driver’s ultimate responsibility is to ensure the crossing is safe before proceeding.
(e) After stopping, when it is safe to proceed, the operator shall drive the vehicle in a gear that permits the vehicle to cross the tracks without changing gears. This is a crucial operational requirement designed to prevent the bus from stalling on the tracks:
- “Drive… in a gear that permits… without changing gears”: This means the driver should select a low enough gear (e.g., first gear) that the bus can maintain continuous momentum across the tracks without needing to shift. Shifting gears on the tracks could cause a momentary loss of power or a stall, putting the bus and its occupants in extreme danger.
(f)
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The operator may not shift gears while crossing the track. This directly prohibits shifting gears once the bus has started to cross the tracks, reinforcing the intent of subsection (e).
(g) A person commits an offense if the person violates this section. This states that a violation of any part of this section constitutes a criminal offense.
(h) An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $500 or more than $1,000. This specifies the penalty for violating the statute, which is a misdemeanor with a substantial fine.
Why This Law is So Important
This law exists to prevent catastrophic accidents involving school buses and trains. Railroad crossings are inherently dangerous, and the consequences of a collision are almost always severe, especially when children are involved. The detailed requirements in this statute are designed to eliminate as many risks as possible.
Consequences of a Violation
A violation of Texas Transportation Code Sec. 545.2535 can lead to:
- Significant Fines: As noted, fines can range from $500 to $1,000.
- Points on Your Driving Record: This can lead to increased insurance premiums.
- Impact on Employment: For professional drivers, a conviction can jeopardize their employment, especially if they hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
- Criminal Record: While a misdemeanor, it is still a criminal offense that can appear on background checks.
How The Beltz Law Group Can Help
Even with strict rules, mistakes happen, or circumstances may not be as clear-cut as they appear in a citation. If you are a school bus operator facing a charge under Texas Transportation Code Section 545.2535, it’s important to understand your rights and options.
The Beltz Law Group has extensive experience defending a wide range of traffic offenses in Texas. We can assist you by:
- Reviewing the specifics of your citation: Understanding the exact allegations against you.
- Investigating the scene: Examining the railroad crossing, visibility, signage, and any contributing factors.
- Challenging the evidence: Looking for inconsistencies in officer testimony, issues with equipment, or other defenses.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: Working to reduce fines, minimize impact on your driving record, or even seek dismissal of the charge.
- Protecting your professional license: Helping to mitigate the impact on your CDL and employment.
Don’t let a traffic ticket jeopardize your livelihood or reputation. Contact The Beltz Law Group today to discuss your case and explore your legal defense options. We are here to protect your rights.
