What should drivers do if they encounter a school bus with its lights flashing?

When drivers encounter a school bus with its lights flashing, they are required to stop their vehicle and wait until the lights stop flashing. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of children who may be getting on or off the bus. School buses are equipped with flashing lights as a warning to drivers that they are either loading or unloading passengers.

When the lights are activated, it indicates that children are likely in the vicinity. Stopping allows for a safe environment where children can cross the road without the worry of vehicles approaching. It's also important to note that this rule applies regardless of the direction from which the driver is approaching the bus, which emphasizes the importance of caution around school buses. Proceeding carefully, ignoring the bus, or attempting to pass it can lead to dangerous situations and is against traffic laws in most jurisdictions.