Under what circumstances must school buses stop at railway crossings?

School buses are required to stop at railway crossings under all circumstances to ensure the safety of passengers, particularly children. The purpose of this rule is to provide an extra layer of caution as buses transport students, and railways have inherent risks associated with train crossings.

When a school bus comes to a railway crossing, the driver must bring the vehicle to a complete stop regardless of the presence of signage, light signals, or the time of day. This rule is critical as it allows the driver to assess their surroundings carefully, ensuring there are no oncoming trains and that it is safe to proceed.

While factors like the time of day, the presence of flashing lights, or the type of warning devices might influence the behavior of other vehicles at railway crossings, school buses are governed by a stricter protocol. The requirement to stop is a precaution that ultimately emphasizes student safety and reduces the likelihood of accidents at these hazardous intersections.