What must a driver do when they see a school bus with flashing red lights?

When a driver sees a school bus with flashing red lights, the correct action is to stop and remain stopped until the lights are turned off. This is a critical safety measure designed to protect children getting on or off the bus. The flashing red lights serve as a signal that the bus is loading or unloading students, meaning children may be crossing the road.

Stopping when the red lights are activated ensures that drivers give children the necessary time to safely navigate to or from the bus, as they may be hard to see and could be unpredictable in their movements. In many jurisdictions, failing to stop for a school bus with flashing lights can lead to severe penalties, including fines and points on the driver's record, reflecting the seriousness of this traffic law intended to safeguard the most vulnerable road users—children.

While other options may sound reasonable, they do not prioritize the safety of children. Proceeding with caution or passing the bus can put children at great risk, and slowing down without stopping does not provide the required protection while the bus is actively loading or unloading students.