Can You Legally Pass The Rapid When It Is At A Bus Stop?
The bus is a crucial part of getting around Grand Rapids for many people; for years, I took the bus every morning. In certain parts of town, the Rapid bus has a dedicated lane. But in most cases, cars and public transportation share the road, and getting stuck behind the bus can really slow down your commute.
Daring drivers don't hesitate to just zoom past the bus while it's stopped at a bus stop, but are drivers allowed to pass a bus while it's stopped? School buses have strict rules - do public buses in Grand Rapids?
What Are The Rapids' Road Rules?
What's interesting about city buses is that they follow ordinary traffic rules. School buses have specific laws regarding stopping distance, stopping for the attached stop sign (and ignoring said sign), and more, with fines for violations (MCL - Section 257.682).
READ MORE: 3 Changes Grand Rapids Locals Are Asking For Around The City
But the difference between school buses and the Rapid is that there are no specific rules about sharing the road with them. By all accounts, the Rapid is just like every other car on the road, even when it is dropping off and picking up riders.
Since the Rapid has no special rules, here's the main thing to keep in mind:
When a bus has its hazards on, just like any other car with its hazards on, you can pass it where passing is allowed, with caution. Crossing solid passing lines is illegal, as always, and if you must do it, do so with caution. Caution is key if you can't tell.
I couldn't find any legislation stating otherwise and have reached out to the GRPD for comment.
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