RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Transportation this week highlighted critical safety measures for the upcoming school year while preparing residents for peak hurricane season and announcing the conclusion of summer DMV services.

School Bus Safety Reminders Issued Ahead of New Academic Year

With the new school year rapidly approaching, NCDOT is reinforcing the importance of school bus safety protocols for drivers, parents, and students across the state.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school buses remain one of the safest transportation options for children. However, NCDOT officials stress that awareness and adherence to traffic laws around school buses are essential for maintaining this safety record.

Key safety guidelines include:

Yellow flashing lights signal that a school bus is preparing to stop for student loading or unloading. Drivers should reduce speed and prepare to stop their vehicles.

Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are boarding or exiting. All traffic must come to a complete stop and remain stationary until the red lights cease flashing, the stop arm is retracted, and the bus resumes movement.

Two exceptions to the stopping requirement exist: when a highway is divided by a median separation, or on roadways with four or more lanes featuring a center turn lane, where only traffic following the bus must stop.

Comprehensive safety resources for drivers, parents, and students are available at NCDOT.gov by searching “school bus safety.”

State Prepares for Peak Hurricane Season Following Recent Storm Impacts

As North Carolina enters the peak period of hurricane season, NCDOT is urging residents to prioritize emergency preparedness following the significant impacts of recent storms and hurricanes across the state.

The department recommends that all North Carolinians visit ReadyNC.gov to access essential planning resources, including weather alerts, real-time road conditions, and comprehensive guidance for before, during, and after severe weather events.

Final Weekend of Summer DMV Services Announced

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles will conclude its summer walk-in service schedule with just two remaining weekends of extended hours.

August 23 marks the final Saturday that 20 DMV offices will provide morning services to accommodate residents during the busy summer period. A complete list of participating license offices is available at NCDOT.gov by searching “DMV Saturday Hours.”

Triangle Expressway Extension Receives National Recognition

The Complete 540 project has earned national recognition for its innovative technological applications, highlighting North Carolina’s commitment to transportation excellence.

The newly completed southern portion of the Triangle Expressway extends approximately 18 miles from N.C. 55 to Interstate 40/U.S. 70 (future I-42). This transformative infrastructure project opened to traffic last fall and was specifically designed to enhance regional mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and support anticipated growth in the Raleigh metropolitan area.

The project was submitted by the N.C. Turnpike Authority for consideration in the Southern Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (SASHTO) regional level of the America’s Transportation Awards contest, where it received recognition for its innovative approach.

These stories are featured in NCDOT Now, the department’s weekly newscast. For additional information about NCDOT communications, contact the NCDOT Communications Office at (919) 707-2660. Additional news coverage from throughout the week is available at NCDOT.gov.