You must stop for a school bus:
Answers
That is parked on the shoulder of the road with no one in it.
When it approaches you, even if its lights are not flashing.
If you are both driving on a two-lane highway and its red lights are flashing.
Whenever the driver waves at you.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
If you are both driving on a two-lane highway and its red lights are flashing.
Explanation (300 Words)
In the United States and most jurisdictions, drivers must stop for a school bus on a two-lane highway when its red lights are flashing. These flashing lights, often accompanied by a stop arm extending from the side of the bus, signal that the bus is loading or unloading students. This law is in place to protect children who may be crossing the road or walking near the bus.
Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights can result in severe penalties, including fines, license points, and even suspension in some states. More importantly, it can lead to tragic accidents, as children are particularly vulnerable in these situations.
Here’s why the other options are incorrect:
- A parked bus on the shoulder with no one in it: If no lights are flashing and the bus is unoccupied, it does not pose a danger to children, and there’s no legal requirement to stop.
- When the bus approaches without flashing lights: Flashing red lights are the clear signal that the bus is stopping to let students board or alight. Without them, there’s no indication that stopping is required.
- When the driver waves at you: A driver waving at you to proceed does not override the requirement to stop for flashing red lights. However, if they are signaling that it’s safe to move when the lights are off, you may proceed.
Additional Notes:
On multi-lane roads or highways, the requirements to stop vary depending on state laws and whether a physical median divides the lanes. Drivers in the same direction as the bus must stop, but those on the opposite side might not be required to if there’s a divider.
Stopping for school buses with flashing red lights ensures children’s safety, which is a priority for all drivers.