What should you do when you encounter a school bus with its stop sign extended?

When encountering a school bus with its stop sign extended, it is required to stop your vehicle until the sign is retracted. This law is in place to ensure the safety of children boarding or exiting the bus. The extended stop sign signals that children are in the vicinity, and they may be crossing the road at that moment. Stopping your vehicle allows for a safe environment for these children, as they may not be visible from a distance or may be moving unexpectedly.

Furthermore, passing the bus at reduced speed poses a significant risk, as it might not provide adequate time for reactions if a child suddenly appears in the roadway. Honking your horn and proceeding with caution creates confusion and does not adhere to the laws designed to protect students. Continuing to drive, even if you believe the bus is empty, disregards the legal requirement to stop when the stop sign is extended, which is strictly enforced in most regions. This regulation is crucial for maintaining the safety of students as they board or exit school buses.