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

When you see a school bus with its red lights flashing, it indicates that children are either boarding or disembarking from the bus. It is crucial to stop your vehicle to ensure the safety of the children. This law is in place to protect young pedestrians who may be crossing the street in close proximity to the bus, and it is a legal requirement in California and many other states.

The flashing red lights serve as a warning to all drivers that they must bring their vehicles to a complete stop until the lights are turned off. This allows children to safely enter or exit the bus without the risk of being struck by passing vehicles. Ignoring this signal not only puts children at risk but could also result in severe legal consequences, including fines and points on your driving record. Stopping ensures that children have a safe path, which is paramount in any situation involving pedestrian safety, especially near schools.