Which vehicles are required to stop for a school bus with flashing lights?

When a school bus has its flashing lights activated and the stop arm extended, it signals that children are entering or exiting the bus, making it imperative for vehicles to stop. All vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus are required to come to a complete stop. This rule is designed to protect children who may be crossing the road.

In addition, any vehicles approaching the bus from the opposite direction must also be cautious, but they are typically not required to stop unless the road is a two-lane road without a physical barrier. This is why the rule extends to all vehicles on the same side of the road as the bus, ensuring maximum safety for children.

For vehicles traveling on the opposite side of a divided roadway or with multiple lanes, the requirement can differ based on the local laws, but when the bus is in the process of loading or unloading children, stopping is essential on the same side.