Florida School Bus Safety Laws
School Bus Safety: Know When You Need to Stop
When a school bus stops while you’re driving, it isn’t always immediately clear what you should do.
If you’re traveling behind the bus when it activates its flashing red lights and extends its stop arm, the answer is straightforward: Stop.
But what if you’re traveling in the opposite direction? Does the road you’re on make a difference? And how can you tell when you’re required to stop?
When children are getting on or off a school bus, there’s no room for guessing.
Florida School Bus Stop Laws
For drivers traveling in Florida, state law requires vehicles approaching a school bus displaying its stop signal to come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the stop signal is withdrawn.
The important question for drivers traveling in the opposite direction is whether the roadway is divided in a way that meets Florida’s requirements.
When You Must Stop
Two-way or undivided roads:
Traffic traveling in both directions must stop for a school bus displaying its stop signal.
Following the bus:
If you’re traveling in the same direction as the school bus, you must stop.
Multi-lane roads without a qualifying physical separation:
Even if there are multiple lanes, opposing traffic must stop when there is no qualifying median or barrier separating the two directions of travel. A painted center line or center turn lane does not provide an exception.
When Opposing Traffic May Continue
Florida provides an exception for drivers traveling in the opposite direction of a stopped school bus when the roadway is divided by one of the following:
- A raised median
- A physical barrier
- An unpaved space at least 5 feet wide
If one of these qualifying separations exists, drivers traveling in the opposite direction are not required to stop. However, drivers should still proceed with caution and remain alert for children who may be near the roadway.
Remember: A painted line or pavement marking by itself is not a physical barrier.
What About the Yellow Warning Lights?
School buses use yellow warning lights before activating their red stop signal. When you see a school bus displaying its warning lights, slow down and prepare to stop.
The goal isn’t simply to react to the stop arm. It’s to recognize that a school bus is preparing to stop and give yourself enough time and distance to respond safely.
A Simple Rule for Drivers
When you’re unsure, slow down and be prepared to stop.
School buses make frequent stops, and children can be unpredictable. Give yourself plenty of following distance, avoid distractions and watch carefully for the bus’s warning lights and stop signal.
Driving in Another State?
School bus laws can vary from state to state. If you’re traveling outside Florida, don’t assume the same rules apply. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the school bus laws in the states where you operate.
When it comes to school bus safety, knowing when to stop can make all the difference.
What Being a Food Grade Carrier Means to Oakley
As a dedicated food-grade carrier, we at Oakley Transport pride ourselves in our thorough comprehension of the products we haul and their intended final use. We routinely handle a wide array of ingredients with food-grade requirements, including alcohols, edible oils, liquid sweeteners, juices, syrups, water, glycerin, vinegar, dry goods, flour, sugar, yeast, and packaged food products. Depending on whether the product is liquid or dry, and its intended application, several key considerations factor into the bulk transport process.
Many food-grade products serve multiple purposes, such as being utilized in technology manufacturing or cosmetics production, in addition to food applications.
To properly serve our customers, we operate sanitary tanks, dry bulk tankers, MC-307, and DOT-407 food-grade tankers equipped with in-transit heat systems and stainless-steel pumps.
Our HACCP and GMP certified operators ensure that cargo is delivered in the same condition as the shipper loaded it.
As a member of the Juice Products Association, Oakley Transport has developed the industry’s most stringent food safety and food defense programs for several years.
Oakley Transport has been certified by various Fortune 500 companies and independent third-party auditing firms and fully comply with all of the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act regulations, earning numerous certifications and ISO accreditation ISO9001:2015 ISO22000:2018, demonstrating compliance with applicable industry, statutory and regulatory food safety requirements.
Many food-grade products need to be certified Kosher. As such, the transportation and tank wash processes must comply with Kosher requirements. Oakley Transport’s tank wash is a Kosher-certified and JPA-approved wash facility. Our additional tank wash vendors across the US are all Kosher certified and follow the Oakley wash protocol.
Oakley Transport utilizes a computerized wash system capable of capturing all elements of the wash procedures, including pH and water temperature levels during the wash cycle. We have an electronically controlled high-pressure, low-volume system. This system is designed to sanitize and rinse each tanker to achieve complete sterilization. All fittings and valves are removed, cleaned, and sanitized. With nearly 40 years of experience, Oakley Transport’s Tank Wash Division understands the importance of cleaning and sanitizing Food Grade Tankers. We continually work with our clients to ensure we meet their individual tank wash specifications.
Oakley is dedicated to excellence and being an ethical and legal transportation partner with our customers. Oakley Transport understands the importance of food safety. We are committed to continuously improving our processes while providing the highest quality services to our customers to meet and exceed their expectations.
Oakley Transport’s Stephanie Pennix Wins 2026 Distinguished Safety Professional Award
Recently, Florida Trucking Association (FTA) asked its affiliated partners to nominate individuals who have gone above and beyond in their safety roles. Among many nominees, Oakley Transport’s Stephanie Pennix was selected as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Safety Professional award!
This is no ordinary award. The Distinguished Safety Professional Award is not presented every year. The recipient is selected at the discretion of the selection committee and an independent panel and is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to safety, leadership, and service in the trucking industry. Stephanie is more than deserving of this recognition.
Stephanie joined Oakley Transport in 2014 and has spent more than a decade advancing her career and making an impact across the company.
Over the years, she has held and excelled in several key positions, including Safety and Compliance Administrator, Logging and Compliance Manager, Claims Manager, and now Safety and Compliance Manager. In every role, she has brought the same attention to detail, dedication, and commitment to doing things the right way.
Stephanie has helped strengthen Oakley’s safety performance, improve compliance and claims processes, and build a culture in which safety is understood as a shared responsibility. Her work and dedication have played a key role in Oakley’s continued success and have contributed to the company receiving multiple national safety awards.
Her commitment to safety doesn’t stop at Oakley. She has dedicated her time and energy to FTA through roadside inspections, the Florida Truck Driving Championships, 2.0 Leadership, and other industry initiatives. Stephanie also holds advanced safety credentials, including NATMI Certified Director of Safety and Safety Supervisor. She has completed extensive training in DOT compliance and drug and alcohol testing, continuing to build the knowledge needed to lead Oakley’s safety efforts.
Her commitment to safety has made a real difference, not only for Oakley Transport, but for FTA and Florida’s trucking industry as a whole. We are exceptionally proud of Stephanie’s recognition with one of FTA’s highest safety honors.
Help us congratulate Mrs. Stephanie Pennix on receiving this prestigious award in recognition of her hard work and dedication.
Brake Safety Week is August 23-29
Brake Safety Week 2026 is August 23-29
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced August 23-29 as this year’s Brake Safety Week, an annual enforcement and education campaign that reminds drivers, carriers, and maintenance teams of the critical role a well-maintained brake system plays in the safety of our trucks.
During the week, certified inspectors will conduct DOT roadside inspections, closely examining commercial truck brake systems. This year’s special emphasis is on brake drums and rotors. Worn, cracked, or damaged drums and rotors can reduce braking efficiency, increase stopping distances, and cause fragments to break off the vehicle, posing serious hazards to other motorists.
Throughout August, Brake Safety Awareness Month, the CVSA is dedicated to educating drivers, carriers, technicians, and maintenance teams about the importance of preventive maintenance and proper brake operation, reinforcing the need for routine maintenance before a problem occurs.
According to the CVSA, drivers and the maintenance team should keep the following in mind when inspecting brake drums and rotors:
- Inspect visible portions of the drum or rotor as part of your pre- and post- trip inspections.
- Look for signs of cracked or broken pieces in the friction surface of the rotor.
- Look for cracks that run through to the outer portion of the drum or missing pieces, where visible.
- On disc brakes, pay attention to the conditions of the rotor. Heavily rusted rotors across the entire friction surface indicate an inoperative brake.
- If the rotor is grooved, indicating metal-to-metal contact, that means the brake pads are worn, and the shoe is making contact with the rotor.
- Ensure the rotor is not worn to the extent that the center vents are exposed
- Make sure all repairs are consistent with the brake manufacturer’s requirements and guidelines.
- Note any issues in your driver vehicle inspection reports and report them to the motor carrier.
For Oakley Driving Professionals, Brake Safety Week is a reminder that brake maintenance begins long before an inspection. From maintaining our equipment to supporting our drivers, every member of the Oakley Family plays a role in keeping our fleet safe and reliable. By prioritizing preventive maintenance and a safety-first mindset, we’re able to continue delivering America’s food supply with confidence.
CSVA Brake Safety Week Support:
https://cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026-BSW-Flyer-English.pdf
https://cvsa.org/wp-content/uploads/Brake-Inspection-Check-List.pdf
Oakley Transport Named 2025 NTTC North American Safety Contest Class 2 Grand Award Winner

At Oakley Transport, safety is more than a priority; it is the foundation of everything we do. We are proud to announce that Oakley Transport has been named the Grand Award Winner in our mileage class in the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) North American Safety Contest, recognizing us as an industry leader in the fewest preventable collisions per mile.
This achievement is especially meaningful in a year when carriers across North America have continued to raise the bar and improve their overall safety performance. To be recognized among the best in the industry is a testament to the culture we have built together at Oakley.
As a Grand Award winner, Oakley now advances to Round Two of the North American Safety Contest and is officially in contention for the prestigious Heil Trophy, sponsored by Heil Trailer International. The three Heil Trophy winners — one for Private Fleets, one for carriers under 15 million miles, and one for carriers over 15 million miles — will be announced on Wednesday, April 22, during the NTTC Annual Conference in Baltimore.
This is not new territory for Oakley. We previously earned the NTTC North American Safety Contest award in our class in 2019, 2021, and 2022. While the Heil Trophy has eluded us in past years, we are hopeful and determined as we move forward in this year’s competition. One thing is certain: we will give it our very best effort.
Awards like this do not happen by accident. They are the result of consistent professionalism, accountability, and teamwork across every department. From our driving professionals and maintenance teams to operations, safety, customer service, and administrative support, each plays a vital role in strengthening our safety culture.
We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and grateful for the commitment our Oakley Family demonstrates every single day. No matter the outcome in Round Two, this recognition reinforces what we already know: safety is not just something we talk about at Oakley — it is who we are.
Thank you to every member of the Oakley Family for helping make this possible.
Haulin’ Through Halloween: The Sweet Side of Food-Grade Freight
Every October, shelves across America start filling with chocolate bars, caramels, lollipops, and gummies in every shape and color imaginable. But before those treats ever reach your candy bowl, Oakley Transport drivers are the ones making it possible — hauling the essential food-grade ingredients that bring Trick-or-Treating, Halloween’s sweetest tradition, to life.
As one of the nation’s leading food-grade carriers, Oakley Transport delivers the raw ingredients that candy makers depend on, things like corn syrup, sugar, cocoa, and flavoring products that form the base of all your favorite spooky-season snacks. It’s just another example of how our professional drivers help keep America fed (and in this case, sugared up!).
Our dry bulk and liquid tankers don’t just move freight; they move the essentials of everyday life. Every load plays a part in something bigger, from the ingredients that make the treats for Halloween night to the ingredients behind your morning coffee or baked goods.
This time of year, you could say it’s “sweet to be an Oakley driver.” It’s satisfying to know that your hard work helps make the season fun for families everywhere.
So here’s to our incredible Oakley driving professionals, the real MVPs behind the candy aisles, caramel apples, and every bite-sized delight. You keep the shelves stocked, the smiles wide, and the country rolling safely all season long.
Stay safe, stay sweet, and keep on haulin’ through Halloween!
It’s More Than a Job. It’s The Oakley Family.
At Oakley Transport, culture isn’t a buzzword; it’s our way of life. From the moment you walk through our doors or climb into one of our trucks, you’ll feel it. We’re all part of the Oakley Family here. And just like any strong family, we show up for each other, laugh together, and take pride in our work.
Our team said it best:
“We genuinely enjoy the jobs that we do.”
“It’s like our second family.”
“Every day we come to work and enjoy the people we work with.”
“We all know we’ve got a job to do—might as well enjoy it while we’re at it.”
That’s the Oakley difference.
We believe the best companies put people first. Our team members aren’t just names on a schedule; they’re individuals with stories, families, and futures. That’s why we prioritize a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where every voice is heard and every person matters. Because when people feel valued, they show up with heart.
“What I love most about my job is the people—they’re some of the best people. They’re my close friends. They come to all my family events.”
Our mission is to make sure everyone in our Oakley Family feels like they’re part of something bigger than a job. We take pride in creating a space where everyone feels needed, seen, and appreciated, from drivers to driver managers to mechanics.
We know a positive environment doesn’t just attract employees but also customers. Happy people build better relationships, and that energy is contagious. It moves from our office to our trucks to every client interaction.
“The most rewarding part of my job? When a driver calls just to check in on me. That tells me we’ve built something real.”
At Oakley, we’re building more than a business; we’re nurturing our Oakley Family. And every day, we’re reminded that relationships start with a kind word, a little laughter, and a whole lot of respect.
Because when you care about your people, the rest falls into place.
2025 International Roadcheck Readiness
This year’s CVSA International Roadcheck kicks off on May 13 and ends on May 15. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s 72-hour safety check is one of the biggest inspection initiatives of the year across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. It focuses on two categories: driver violations and vehicle violations.
Following last year’s focus on tractor protection systems and alcohol and controlled substance possession, the 2025 Roadcheck will focus on Driver Records of Duty Status (RODS) and tire health and maintenance. Law enforcement personnel will inspect commercial motor vehicles and drivers at weigh/inspection stations, temporary sites, and mobile patrols to verify regulatory compliance.
Driver Category: Records of Duty Status (RODS)
RODS is a log that a commercial motor vehicle driver must maintain to record their driving activity. According to the information released by the CVSA regarding this year’s inspection, all RODS must accurately reflect Hours-of-service (HOS) times and duty statuses. Failure to record, complete, or retain the log, or knowingly falsifying logs or other related reports, is not only a driver out-of-service violation but also makes the driver and/or carrier liable to prosecution.
Use your ELD correctly, and if you’re not sure how something should be logged, ask before the inspection window opens. Oakley drivers have access to knowledgeable team members who can help you avoid simple but sometimes costly mistakes.
Additionally, the CVSA indicates that during the driver portion of an inspection, inspectors check the driver’s documents, license or commercial driver’s license, medical examiner’s certificate and skill performance certificate (if applicable), record of duty status, Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse status (in the U.S.), seat belt usage, and alcohol and/or drug impairment. If an inspector identifies driver out-of-service violations, they place the driver out of service, restricting that driver from operating their vehicle.
Vehicle Category: Tire Maintenance
Blowouts, worn tread, and damaged tires don’t just put your CSA score at risk; they put you and everyone around you in danger. During the 72-hour International Roadcheck, inspectors will check tires’ tread depth, proper inflation, and tire damage, such as air leaks, tread separation, cuts, bulges, sidewall damage, and improper repairs.
Additionally, the CVSA indicates that during the vehicle portion of the Level I Inspection, inspectors ensure the vehicle’s brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft components, driver’s seat, fuel and exhaust systems, frames, lighting devices, steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, wheels, rims, hubs, and windshield wipers are compliant with applicable regulations. Inspections of motorcoaches, passenger vans, and other passenger-carrying vehicles also include the examination of emergency exits, seating, and electrical cables and systems in the engine and battery compartments.
Passing drivers and vehicles will be given CVSA Level I or V decals that last for three months. This year, Oakley Transport is doubling inspection bonuses for clean inspections during the 72-hour CVSA International Roadcheck.
Any vehicles or drivers identified as out-of-service will remain so until the necessary criteria are corrected or addressed. Thousands of vehicles and drivers were placed out of service last year during Roadcheck. Let’s make sure you’re not one of them in 2025. Make sure you’re ready for this year’s Roadcheck now. Here’s a thorough explanation of the CVSA’s 2025 focus areas to help: https://www.cvsa.org/programs/international-roadcheck/focus-area/.
And if you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help.
Visit https://cvsa.org/news/2025-roadcheck/ for complete information on this year’s CVSA International Roadcheck.
Avoiding Driver Fatigue
Drowsy driving can pose significant safety risks on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving is responsible for about 100,000 crashes each year, resulting in more than 71,000 injuries. While long hours behind the wheel can be grueling, and you may be tempted to push through fatigue, it’s essential to understand the toll sleep deprivation takes on drivers. Here are some tips to help you avoid driver fatigue.
1. Getting Enough Sleep
While this may be the most basic tip, it’s also the most important. Sleep is critical for staying sharp on the road. Any time you get less than the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night, your driving performance suffers. Prioritizing adequate rest is key to staying alert.
2. Sustaining a Good Diet
Skipping meals or eating irregularly can increase drowsiness. Consuming heavy meals right before driving can also lead to fatigue, and eating a large meal before bed can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to less restorative rest. Be sure to eat regularly and avoid heavy meals at inopportune times.
3. Taking a Break
If you start to feel drowsy while driving, stopping and taking a break to recharge is crucial. A short nap (up to 45 minutes) has been shown to restore alertness. While strict schedules may make breaks feel like an inconvenience, prioritizing rest is essential for safety.
4. Don’t Rely on Alertness Tricks
Tricks like rolling down the window, turning up the radio, and overconsuming caffeine are usually referred to as ways to stay awake when driving fatigued; however, they are typically only short-term fixes. The security these provide to some drivers can also be dangerous as you feel compelled to keep driving, ignoring your impairment.
Drowsy driving is entirely preventable. By following these tips, you can ensure you’re always at your best behind the wheel. Stay safe out there, drivers!
5 Tips to Stay Safe While Driving in the Rain
Did you know that wet pavement contributes to nearly 70% of weather-related crashes in the U.S.? With spring rains on the horizon, staying safe on the road is more important than ever. Rain affects a large portion of the United States and can come quickly if you aren’t ready for it. It turns an easy drive into a drive where everything can instantly change. To be sure you’re prepared for it, here are five tips to ensure you deliver your freight promptly and safely in the rain.
1. Be prepared
As always, inspecting your equipment before you start your travel is paramount. Checking tire pressure during your pre/post-trip inspections is critical for safe operation during adverse weather conditions. Even the slightest piece of faulty equipment can lead to issues on the road, so make sure you do your checks and have all of your truck’s equipment in good shape before you take off.
2. Drive cautiously
Driving in the rain requires patience and heightened awareness. Drive slowly to avoid hydroplaning, as that is the worst-case scenario. Finding “space” is also more critical during these conditions. Maintain safe distances from other drivers on the road and ensure you adjust your braking technique. Caution is the key to safety, and safety comes above all.
3. Keep your focus
Maintaining focus is essential no matter the situation, but it’s even more important when driving in adverse conditions. Avoid distractions like eating or drinking. Avoid being on the phone completely during severe or inclement weather. If being on the phone is absolutely necessary, remember the regulatory requirements for needing to be hands-free. Make sure your headlights are on, and keep your awareness heightened at all times.
4. Make stops when necessary
If the conditions become too dangerous to continue, decrease speed, and depending upon the state of which you are operating, if emergency flashers are necessary, use them. The following states have laws against driving with emergency flashers except in an emergency or in other specific instances: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Montana, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Do not come to a complete stop on the highway or emergency lanes during inclement weather. Slow down until you can find a location off of the highway to stop. While this may impact delivery timelines, the driver’s safety comes above all.
5. Communication
Keeping dispatch informed about all weather events, road closures, and delays can be your greatest resource in scenarios like this. They can provide insight and help you through all sorts of tough situations.
By following these precautions, you’ll ensure your safety and that of other drivers on the road. Stay alert, stay prepared, and drive safely this rainy season.
