In what situation is it mandatory to stop for a school bus?

It is mandatory to stop for a school bus when its stop sign is extended. This indicates that the bus is actively picking up or dropping off students, and stopping is necessary to ensure their safety. The extended stop sign serves as a warning to other drivers that children may be crossing the street or are near the bus, making it essential to prevent any accidents.

This requirement is in place to provide a safe environment for students, as they are often unaware of the potential dangers while they are getting on or off the bus. Following this rule is critical, regardless of the time of day or whether children are visibly outside at the moment. The law is designed to protect children in all situations where the bus has its stop sign activated, reinforcing the importance of vigilance around school buses at all times.