When are you required to stop for a school bus?

Stopping for a school bus is a critical safety measure to ensure the protection of children as they board and exit the bus. You are required to stop when the bus's stop sign is extended and its lights are flashing. This indicates that the bus is actively picking up or dropping off students, and it is illegal to pass the bus in this situation. The extended stop sign serves as a clear signal for motorists to halt their vehicles, regardless of their direction of travel.

Understanding this rule helps to prevent accidents and keep children safe. Additionally, even if you don’t see any children immediately present, the law is in place for the safety of all students, who may appear suddenly. Thus, stopping for a school bus ensures that you are complying with traffic laws designed to protect vulnerable road users.