A New Hanover County Schools bus driver says 87 cars passed the stopped school bus

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – A New Hanover County Schools bus driver is speaking out about the dangers of cars not stopping for school buses.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol is on the job Weapon Violation Detention Week through October 21-25. The campaign aims to violate school bus regulations that endanger children’s lives.

Pam Tressler is a bus driver for New Hanover County Schools. She says she saw with her own eyes the issue of violations of the weapons seizure order. Tressler says 87 cars have passed through her stopped bus since August.

“It’s terrifying. “I mean, they try to make us stop in places where kids don’t cross the street, but sometimes it’s necessary and it’s terrifying to see one of the kids almost get run over,” Tressler said.

Tressler serves routes on Still Meadow and South College Road, Mcquillian Drive and Carolina Beach Road, Lake Park and Bennett, Lumberton and Bennett, Cape Fear and Lake Park at Carolina Beach.

“They’re just tearing me up out there,” Tressler said.

The Wilmington Police Department says a large part of the problem is people distracted while driving.

“People need to be careful when driving and slow down. Driving faster won’t actually get you to your destination faster,” said Lt. Greg Willett.

Tressler agrees that drivers often use their phones instead of focusing on the road. He says bus drivers turn on their lights 300 feet before the stop so other drivers have enough time to stop.

“Everyone is very busy on their phones today. Some of the ones that pass me, I see them and they’re just talking on their phone, not paying attention to where they are,” Tressler said.

Debbie Trafton, director of transportation for New Hanover County Schools, says the county counts gun violations every April. He says in 2023, the county counted 117 violations in one day and in 2024, 165 in one day.

According to Trafton, almost all buses in New Hanover County are equipped with cameras. The cameras record video, a photo and the license plate number, which can be sent to the police in the event of a violation.

Under state law, driving a stopped school bus is a misdemeanor and can result in a $500 fine. If a driver hits a person, the charge may be charged as a felony.

Officials are working to prevent as many violations as possible. However, bus drivers and law enforcement officials are asking drivers to be more careful on the road.

“The new buses are equipped with illuminated stop arms, which are basically LEDs surrounding a sign. Thanks to the grant, we install illuminated signs at our bus stop. This will ensure that buses loading and unloading students on our busiest roads are clearly visible as daylight saving time approaches. It is a continuing effort to raise awareness and encourage drivers not to use their phones while driving,” Trafton said.

Learn more about the appropriate time to stop for the school bus can be found here.