If you fail to stop for a school bus, expect to be hit where it hurts.

Hamilton Police have launched Operation Bus Watch to remind drivers of their responsibility to stop for school buses with signals flashing and stop arm extended.

Officers in motorcycles or unmarked cars will ramp up enforcement of school bus infractions from Sept. 1-12.

Failing to stop can result in fines from $400 to $4,000 and the loss of six demerit points.

Hamilton Police have identified a drop off point at 335 Wilson St. E as an area of concern for school bus infractions.

The drop off point is just north of the traffic light at Wilson and Sulphur Springs Road, in front of the Pearson Dunn Insurance office.

Infractions are most common from 3:40-4 p.m.

Acting Sergeant Walter Johnston of the traffic services division said police identified school bus problems in Ancaster's village core based on feedback from bus drivers and local citizens.

"I wouldn't say they are habitual problems but that area does require some special attention," he explained.

Problem intensified

Pearson Dunn staff member Donna Medeiros said the problem intensified last year when drivers disobeyed stop signs on a daily basis.

On one occasion, she was nearly hit by a vehicle while trying to walk across Wilson Street near a stopped school bus.

If the first day of school is any indication, drivers could finally be getting the message.

"I haven't heard any horns honk," she said on Tuesday afternoon. "Everybody seems to be behaving themselves."

Operation Bus Watch is a joint effort between police, Hamilton's school boards and several bus companies.

Following the two-week safety blitz, the area will be continuously monitored by Hamilton Police divisional safety and beat officers.

Ontario's school bus law applies on all roadways, regardless of posted speed limit.

Motorists meeting a stopped school bus with overhead alternating red signal lights flashing and stop arm extended must stop unless they are on a highway divided by a median strip.