What action should a driver take if they approach a school bus with flashing red lights?

When approaching a school bus with flashing red lights, the correct action is to stop and wait until the lights stop flashing. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of children who may be getting on or off the bus. The flashing red lights signal that the bus is loading or unloading students, and it indicates that drivers must come to a complete stop to provide a safe environment for these children.

By stopping, drivers allow children the necessary time to cross the street safely and prevent potential accidents. It’s important for all drivers to recognize this signal and understand the legal requirements in order to protect young pedestrians. The law mandates that vehicles on both sides of the road must stop when the school bus displays its flashing red lights, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

Other actions, such as slowing down and proceeding carefully or driving around the bus, compromise safety and may lead to legal repercussions. Honking to alert the driver does not address the fundamental need to stop for the safety of the children involved. Understanding this rule is essential for maintaining safety in school zones and promoting responsible driving behavior around buses.