BMV Practice Test

When you see a school bus with its red lights flashing, the correct action is to stop regardless of the direction you are coming from. This law is in place to ensure the safety of children who are getting on or off the bus. The flashing red lights indicate that students are in the vicinity and may be crossing the road, making it imperative to stop your vehicle to prevent accidents.

This applies to all lanes of traffic in both directions, even on undivided highways, where the bus is picking up or dropping off students. The importance of this law cannot be overstated, as it helps protect vulnerable children at a critical time – when they are most at risk of being injured in traffic.

In scenarios where others might be tempted to pass the bus—due to misinterpreted situations or confusion about the law—it's crucial to understand that safety is the priority. Failing to stop can lead to significant penalties and, more importantly, could cause injury to a child. By stopping for a school bus, you are contributing to safer roadways for everyone, particularly the younger, more vulnerable population.