What must you do if you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights and stop arm extended?

• A. Stop in both directions; you may proceed only when the lights stop flashing and the stop arm is withdrawn, unless a separate barrier exists.
• B. Proceed with caution.
• C. Ignore if you are in a hurry.
• D. Only stop in the same direction.

Answer: (A)

When a school bus shows red lights and the stop arm is extended, vehicles must stop in all directions. This rule protects children as they board or alight the bus. You may proceed only after the bus has stopped, the stop arm is withdrawn, and the red lights cease flashing. The only exception is if there is a physical barrier between directions of traffic (for example, a raised median); in that case, traffic in the opposite direction may not be required to stop because the barrier prevents crossing the bus’s path. This rule is all about ensuring children are safe while boarding or exiting the bus.