What should you do if you see a school bus with flashing lights?

When you see a school bus displaying flashing lights, it is a clear sign that the bus is either picking up or dropping off students. The law requires all vehicles to come to a complete stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended. This is important for the safety of children who may be getting on or off the bus, as they are often in the vicinity of the road and may not be fully aware of their surroundings.

Stopping ensures that children can safely enter or exit the bus without the risk of being struck by passing vehicles. It is an essential practice that helps prevent accidents and keeps children safe during a critical time when they are most vulnerable. The law is strictly enforced, and drivers who fail to stop can face significant penalties.

On the other hand, reducing your speed is insufficient, as it does not provide the same level of safety as coming to a complete stop. Passing the bus quickly not only endangers the children but also violates traffic regulations. Honking your horn is inappropriate and could startle children trying to cross the street or get off the bus. Therefore, stopping your vehicle is the correct and legally required action in this situation.