School Bus Lighting: Proven Safety to Prevent School Bus Crashes

Pricing Disclaimer:

All pricing is set by our authorized distributor. Prices listed on this website are preliminary estimates and subject to change based on location, dealer, and other factors. Please contact your local authorized dealer for exact pricing and availability.

Mounts

wherever your state requires

NOTE: *Check with state regulations for specific mounting locations*

(We accommodate front-bumper mounted, under front-bumper mounted, and undercarriage mounting options.)

About the Gardian Angel Pedestrian School Bus Lighting System

The Gardian Angel system is designed to enhance the safety of children boarding and exiting school buses by providing a clear, illuminated path that keeps pedestrians visible and out of danger. It is is compatible with a wide range of school bus models—Type A, C, and D—and integrates seamlessly with existing bus lighting and safety equipment.

Universal Compatibility: Whether you operate small Type A buses or large Type D transit-style buses, the Gardian Angel lighting system is compatible with a wide range of school bus models
Quick Installation: Typically, our system can typically be installed in 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the wiring setup, minimizing downtime for your fleet.
Multiplex Wiring Ready: Modern buses with multiplex wiring can be outfitted without complex rewiring, preserving factory systems and warranties.
Crossing Arm Integration: Works alongside front crossing arms, enhancing safety without interfering with existing equipment.
User-Friendly Operation: No additional switches or complicated controls — the system activates automatically to assist drivers and students alike.
Additionally, includes a 2-year manufacturer warranty. This system meets specifications currently permitted in 26 states and is designed to support safe student crossings where allowed by law.

Works

WITH CROSSING ARMS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the light blind children waiting to board or exit the bus?

No. The Gardian Angel light is specifically engineered to be safe and effective. The LED light fixture is angled downward at approximately 45 degrees, directing illumination onto the ground rather than into the eyes of children. This creates a bright, wide path of light that highlights the pedestrian route without causing glare or discomfort.

How exactly does the lighting system operate during a bus stop?

When the school bus driver brings the vehicle to a stop and activates the stop sign and school bus flashing reds, the system’s white pedestrian safety light automatically activates. This light outlines a safe walking path for students, extending beyond the commonly recognized 10-foot “danger zone” around the bus. Pedestrians are instructed to use this illuminated path to stay clearly visible and safely away from traffic.

Is the system complicated for drivers to use?

No. The Gardian Angel lighting system is designed for effortless operation. It activates automatically in sync with the bus’s red warning lights and door opening mechanism, eliminating the need for drivers to manage extra controls. The light switches off when the door closes, simplifying workflow and reducing distractions.

What if the light stops working? Do the bulbs need frequent replacement?

Our lighting system uses LED technology, which differs significantly from traditional incandescent bulbs. LEDs do not have filaments that burn out suddenly; instead, they gradually lose brightness over time. The white LED light in our system has an expected lifespan of over 50,000 hours, which translates to many years of reliable use. Additionally, all Gardian Angel products come with a two-year warranty for peace of mind.

📊 Federal Safety Alignment

Gardian Angel supports the goals outlined in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Roadway Safety Strategy and Vision Zero by helping reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities in school zones — one of the most vulnerable road-user environments in the country.

Our solution addresses visibility gaps before, during, and after school hours, giving districts a practical tool to meet federal safety benchmarks with minimal disruption to fleet operations.

View the strategy:https://www.transportation.gov/NRSS and Vision Zero: https://visionzeronetwork.org/

Expert Installation and Maintenance Tips

For technicians, fleet managers, and transportation directors who want to get the most from the Gardian Angel system, here are some essential tips:

Installation Efficiency:
Gardian Angel lighting is compatible with all bus types (A, C, and D). Installation typically takes under 30 minutes, but buses with multiplex wiring systems (common on newer vehicles) may require up to an hour.
Special Instructions for Newer Models:
Buses manufactured from 2012 onward, particularly Thomas Built buses with multiplex wiring, require specific installation procedures to ensure proper integration and system performance.
Flexible Wiring Options:
The system’s main electrical connection can be made at several points on the bus, allowing flexibility depending on your fleet’s configuration.
Compatibility with Crossing Arms:
The Gardian Angel system works perfectly on buses equipped with front crossing arms, so you can upgrade safety without sacrificing existing features.
Stable Performance Post-Installation:
Once installed and adjusted properly, the lighting system requires no further adjustments, minimizing maintenance and service calls.
No Additional Equipment Needed:
Installation does not require any extra relays or complex electrical components, simplifying the process and reducing costs.
Secure Connections Are Critical:
Ensure that all electrical connections are made securely and sealed against weather conditions. Poor or loose connections can reduce the system’s effectiveness and longevity.
Optimal Light Positioning:
The LED safety light must be angled at approximately 45 degrees toward the ground to illuminate the pedestrian pathway correctly and maximize safety benefits.

Why Choose Gardian Angel?

The Gardian Angel Pedestrian School Bus Lighting System is more than just a light—it’s a proven safety measure designed to protect children and reduce accidents around school buses. Backed by patented technology and a commitment to quality, our system is trusted by school districts across 26 states. We’re proud to work with transportation directors, mechanics, and safety advocates dedicated to making student travel safer.

Why It Matters:

Every year, students are injured or killed in the bus danger zone. The Gardian Angel lighting system gives drivers a better view — and gives students a better chance.

📍Real-World Results:

A rural Midwestern school district retrofitted their entire bus fleet with the Gardian Angel system in 2022 after repeated close calls. In the first year of use, they reported a 62% reduction in illegal pass-bys at bus stops — a key metric of student risk. Transportation staff credited the enhanced visibility and parent education campaign as contributing factors.

🚍 This is just one example of how Gardian Angel is helping school districts move from reactive to proactive school bus safety.