Horry County Led South Carolina School Bus Citations
South Carolina drivers face fines over $1,000 for failing to stop for school buses, with Horry County reporting the highest volume.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Secondary Education
Live Poll
Do you feel drivers in your community prioritize school bus safety enough?
State law enforcement records show that Horry County accounted for 25.4 percent of all school bus stop citations issued across South Carolina since 2020. With 522 citations in the county, authorities are intensifying patrols to curb illegal passing.
Why it matters
Illegal passing of school buses poses a significant safety risk to children, leading law enforcement to prioritize traffic enforcement in areas with frequent violations. These encounters are costly for families, carrying fines exceeding $1,000 and the addition of six license points.
Since 2020, Horry County has seen 522 citations for illegal bus passing, while statewide enforcement reached 2,050 total cases. By August 31, 2026, authorities had issued 297 citations, following a record high of 473 in 2025.
The players
South Carolina Law Enforcement
State officials responsible for road safety and the enforcement of traffic laws regarding school bus stop-arm compliance.
The details
Drivers on two-lane roads must stop in both directions when a school bus is loading or unloading students. Citations are issued when troopers witness the maneuver or when bus-mounted cameras capture clear footage of the driver and vehicle license plate. Officers are now patrolling near bus stops more frequently to prevent these illegal passes and ensure student safety during boarding.
Timeline
Tracking for school bus stop violations began in 2020.
A record 473 citations were issued across the state in 2025.
Data for 2026 citations was collected through August 31.
The Home Front
Recent citation trends reflect an intensified application of South Carolina school bus stop laws designed to protect students on busy roadways. This increase in enforcement follows a period of higher stop-arm violation reports, which totaled 3,901 statewide during the 2024-25 school year.
Review the laws regarding school bus stops, as you must stop on two-lane roads in both directions when the bus is loading or unloading. If you are uncertain about the specific distance or requirements in your neighborhood, consult local traffic guidelines or your school district website.
The takeaway
Illegal passing of school buses results in hefty penalties including $1,000 fines and six points on your driving record. Always remain alert for flashing red lights and the extended stop arm while driving in areas with bus traffic.
Further reading
For more on student safety and transportation, visit Secondary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Post and Courier.
Live Poll
Do you feel drivers in your community prioritize school bus safety enough?
