When a school bus has its lights flashing and its stop arm extended, you must:
Stop at least 10 feet away from the bus.
Pass if children have exited the bus.
Stop if the bus is on the opposite side of a barrier.
Drive slowly past the bus.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: Stop at least 10 feet away from the bus.
Explanation:
When a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, all drivers must stop their vehicles at least 10 feet away from the bus, regardless of whether the bus is on your side of the road, the opposite side, or at an intersection. This law is designed to ensure the safety of children who are boarding or exiting the bus, as they are often crossing the road at this time.
Why is this law important?
Children are at their most vulnerable when they are getting on or off the bus. They may not always check for oncoming traffic or may suddenly step into the road. The flashing red lights and extended stop arm are signals to all drivers that they must stop to provide a safe environment for children to cross.
What about barriers or divided highways?
If the bus is on the opposite side of a divided highway with a physical barrier (such as a median or concrete divider), you are not required to stop. However, if there is no physical barrier and only a painted line separates the lanes, all drivers in both directions must stop.
Penalties for violating this law
Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing lights and an extended stop arm can result in severe consequences, including hefty fines, points on your driving record, or even license suspension. In some cases, it can lead to criminal charges if a child is injured due to negligence.
Best practices for drivers
- Always stay alert for school buses, especially during school hours.
- Be prepared to stop when you see a bus slowing down or flashing yellow lights, as this indicates it is about to stop.
- Avoid distractions to ensure the safety of all road users, especially children.
Stopping for a school bus isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s a moral responsibility to protect the lives of children.