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

When you encounter a school bus with its stop sign extended, the correct action is to stop your vehicle. This is a crucial safety measure designed to protect children who may be crossing the street or boarding and exiting the bus. The law requires all vehicles to come to a complete stop when the stop arm is extended, regardless of the direction from which you are approaching the bus.

This rule ensures that children have a safe environment to navigate while they are in the vicinity of the bus, making it vital for all drivers to comply with this regulation. The safety of children is the top priority, and stopping allows them the time and space they need to do so safely.

Passing the bus quickly is not only illegal but also significantly increases the risk of a tragic accident. Similarly, honking your horn is inappropriate and could startle children, potentially leading to dangerous situations. Waiting until the bus pulls away is not sufficient because the immediate requirement is to stop while the stop sign is visible to ensure the safety of any children in the area.