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

When you encounter a school bus with its stop sign extended, it is critical to stop your vehicle, regardless of the direction you are coming from. This law is in place to protect children as they are boarding or disembarking from the bus. The extended stop sign signals that children may be crossing the street and that drivers must halt their vehicles to ensure their safety.

Stopping for a school bus is not just a courtesy; it is a legal requirement. Failing to stop can lead to severe consequences, including fines and points on your driving record. The law is designed to create a safe environment around school buses, making it imperative for all drivers to comply. The intent of the legislation is to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that children can safely enter and exit the bus.

In situations where one might consider slowing down and proceeding with caution, or honking to alert the driver, these actions do not provide the necessary safety for children. The focus must always be on fully stopping and ensuring that the area is clear before moving forward. Therefore, stopping your vehicle is the appropriate and safe action to take when you see a school bus with its stop sign extended.