What should you do when approaching a school bus that has its stop arm extended?

When you encounter a school bus with its stop arm extended, stopping and waiting is the appropriate response. The stop arm signals that children are either boarding or disembarking from the bus. It is crucial to ensure their safety by stopping your vehicle to allow them to cross the road safely and without the risk of being struck by a passing vehicle. In many jurisdictions, including Ontario, failing to stop for a school bus when its stop arm is extended can result in significant penalties, reflecting the importance placed on protecting the safety of children as they navigate to and from school.

The actions of passing quickly, honking the horn, or driving in the opposite lane do not prioritize the safety of children and can lead to dangerous situations. It is essential to understand that the law mandates stopping for school buses with extended stop arms to ensure that children can cross the road safely, highlighting the importance of patience and attentiveness when driving near school zones.