ROCKLAND — A new school year will begin soon and Rockland police are asking that everyone be extra vigilant on the roadways, particularly during the morning commute.

“Please remember to slow down for the several school zones around town and leave extra time to account for getting stuck behind the bus,” police said in a news release. “All motorists, even emergency vehicles, are prohibited from passing a stopped school bus when the flashing lights are on.”

Title 29-A Section 2308 of Maine legislation states: "the operator of a vehicle on a way, in a parking area or on school property, on meeting or overtaking a school bus from either direction when the bus has stopped with its red lights flashing to receive or discharge passengers, shall stop the vehicle before reaching the school bus. The operator may not proceed until the school bus resumes motion or until signaled by the school bus operator to proceed. "

Police said that traffic violations in school zones and involving school buses will be strongly enforced.

Many school buses are equipped with dashboard or side view cameras to record violations.

Passing a stopped school bus with lights flashing can result in a criminal charge for the operator of the vehicle and even a traffic violation for the registered owner of the vehicle, even if the registered owner is not present, according to police.

Police thanked everyone in the news release for help keeping our roadways safe and also wished all the returning students a happy and safe school year.

Reach Sarah Shepherd at news@penbaypilot.com