When must a driver stop for a school bus?

A driver must stop for a school bus when the red lights are flashing, and there is no barrier between their vehicle and the bus. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of children who may be entering or exiting the bus. The flashing red lights serve as a clear indication that the bus is either picking up or dropping off students, and vehicles in both directions must come to a complete stop unless there is a physical barrier such as a median.

Stopping for a school bus at this time is crucial because children are often unpredictable, and they may cross the street without looking. By requiring vehicles to stop when the lights are flashing, traffic laws work to protect the safety of these children as they navigate to and from the bus. This regulation is enforced to help prevent accidents in school zones and areas where students are known to be present.