Operation Safe Stop kicks off Monday in Berrien County.

The voluntary enforcement campaign takes place during National School Bus Safety Week. The Berrien County Sheriff’s Office will be concentrating enforcement efforts in and around school bus pick-up and drop-off locations, as well as in speed zones near school buildings.

According to the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center, there were almost 1,200 school bus-related crashes in Michigan in 2019, which is the most in the last 10 years.

October was also the month with the most bus-related crashes, totaling 162.

The National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services reports in one day alone back in May of 2019, Michigan bus drivers reported 508 times that a motorist passed a school bus illegally.

Drivers who pass stopped school buses may be charged with civil infractions carrying a fine between $100 and $500. Violators may also be required to perform up to 100 hours of community service.