What must a driver do when encountering a stopped school bus with flashing lights?

When encountering a stopped school bus with flashing lights, the driver must stop and wait until the lights turn off. This action is crucial for ensuring the safety of children who may be getting on or off the bus. The law requires drivers to come to a complete stop when the school bus has its visual signals activated, as this indicates that children are in the vicinity.

By stopping, the driver provides a safe environment for children to board or exit the bus without the risk of moving vehicles posing a danger. This reflects a broader commitment to pedestrian safety and is particularly important in school zones where children may be present. Failing to stop when required can result in penalties, as it undermines the legal protections in place for students. Therefore, stopping and waiting until the bus deactivates its flashing lights is both a legal obligation and a critical safety measure.