What must you do when you see a school bus with flashing red lights?

When you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights, it is essential to stop your vehicle and wait until the lights stop flashing. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety of children who may be getting on or off the bus. The flashing red lights serve as a crucial indicator that the bus is either actively loading or unloading students, and stopping is necessary to prevent any potential accidents.

By following this requirement, you not only comply with traffic laws but also protect the most vulnerable road users—children. It is important to remain stopped until the bus's lights return to a non-flashing state and, in some instances, the bus driver may extend a stop sign, further indicating that vehicles must remain halted.

In contrast, other actions such as slowing down and passing with caution, honking your horn, or continuing to drive as usual are unsafe and illegal under these circumstances. These actions could put children at risk, and failing to stop for a school bus can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and points on your driving record. Understanding and adhering to this law is vital for ensuring everyone's safety on the road, especially in school zones.