Indiana § 9-21-12-16 - Forward area of school bus off limits to children
Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 9-21-12-16 — Forward area of school bus off limits to children, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9-21-12-16. Forward area of school bus off limits to children
Sec. 16. (a) When a school bus is in motion, students are prohibited from occupying any space forward of a vertical plane drawn through the rear of the driver's seat and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bus. Every school bus must:
(1) be marked with a line or otherwise equipped in order to indicate the prohibited area to students; and
(2) have clearly posted, at or near the front of the bus, a sign stating that it is a violation of Indiana law for a school bus to be operated with any students occupying the prohibited area.
(b) A school bus driver who knowingly or intentionally violates this section commits a Class C misdemeanor.
[Pre-2005 Elementary and Secondary Education Recodification Citation: 20-9.1-5-17.]
As added by P.L.1-2005, SEC.30. Amended by P.L.217-2014, SEC.63.
Source: official Indiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 9-21-12-16
What does Indiana Code § 9-21-12-16 cover?
Section 9-21-12-16 ("Forward area of school bus off limits to children") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Indiana § 9-21-12-16?
A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 9-21-12-16" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Indiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.
How does Indiana § 9-21-12-16 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.