California Driver's License Renewal Practice Exam

When a school bus has its red lights flashing, it signals that children are either getting on or off the bus. The law requires drivers to stop their vehicles in both directions when the red lights are activated, no matter whether they are behind the bus or approaching it from the opposite direction. This stopping action is crucial to ensure the safety of the children who may be crossing the street or walking near the bus.

Waiting until the lights stop flashing is the proper response because it provides a safe environment for children to board or disembark from the bus. Before proceeding, drivers should use caution, look for children, and only continue driving when it is clearly safe to do so, as indicated by the deactivation of the flashing lights. This law is enforced to prevent accidents and protect young pedestrians who may not be visible to drivers.