What action should you take when encountering a school bus with flashing red lights?

When you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights, the appropriate action is to stop and wait until the lights stop flashing. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety of children who may be entering or exiting the bus. The flashing red lights indicate that there are passengers boarding or disembarking, and stopping prevents you from inadvertently putting them at risk.

In many jurisdictions, including Manitoba, the law requires all vehicles to halt when a school bus displays its red lights, regardless of the lane you are in. This applies even if you are traveling in the opposite direction on a divided road. Once the lights turn off and the bus resumes its normal operation, you are then allowed to continue driving safely.

Choosing to speed past the bus or honking your horn is not only dangerous but also illegal. Likewise, attempting to proceed slowly around the bus does not account for the potential for children suddenly stepping out in front of your vehicle, which poses significant safety hazards. Stopping ensures that you are giving children the time and space they need to safely cross the road.