W. Va. Code R. § 126-92-11

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 21, May 23, 2024
Section 126-92-11 - Bus Stop Locations
11.1. The highest priority in establishing bus stop locations must be the safety of students. Every effort should be made by county boards to select a safe bus stop location with ample waiting areas for students. With irregular terrain, special consideration must be given in establishing a bus stop location.
11.2 Ideally, bus stops should be located out of the traffic stream and at least 2/10 of a mile apart. Operators should avoid stopping at intersections whenever possible.
11.3. For bus stop locations near a railroad crossing, consideration should be given to the traffic flow in the area and to assure that adequate distance is allowed for traffic to clear the railroad tracks. The safety of the general motorists should be considered.
11.4. The minimum sight distance should be related to the approved speed of traffic. The approved speed is the posted speed limit, advisory speed limit, or a value judged to most accurately represent the prevailing speed at a specific location.
11.4.a. Sight distance needed on a level grade for essential speeds is as follows:

Speed/Miles Per Hour (MPH)

Recommended Sight Distance

Minimum Sight Distance

25

300 feet

139 feet

30

360 feet

176 feet

35

420 feet

219 feet

40

480 feet

263 feet

45

540 feet

314 feet

50

600 feet

369 feet

55

660 feet

432 feet

EXCEPTION: When a bus stop is near the crest of a hill or a curve, the view of approaching traffic is obstructed, the sight distance shall be a minimum of 200 feet.

11.5. West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) District Traffic Engineers will provide assistance in the selection and the use of bus STOP signs which warn motorists of the presence of students at a bus stop. The county board shall request assistance from the WVDOT if needed.
11.6. Bus stops should be located to minimize students' walking along roadways.
11.7. Wherever possible, bus stops should be located to minimize the need for students to cross the highway.
11.8. The operator shall contact the county director when a bus stop is determined to be potentially unsafe. The county director shall evaluate and take action to relocate the stop to a safer place, if necessary.
11.8.a. The county director may request the Exective Director/designee to assist in evaluation of bus stop locations, but the final decision shall remain the responsibility of the county board.
11.9. Operators are to pick up and discharge students only at the designated locations. Any transfer points should be conducted off highway, with a preference given to transferring on school property.

W. Va. Code R. § 126-92-11