What should you do if you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights?

When you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights, stopping your vehicle and remaining stopped until the lights are off is the correct action. This law is in place to ensure the safety of children who may be boarding or disembarking from the bus. The flashing red lights indicate that the bus is actively picking up or dropping off students, and it is crucial to create a safe environment for them as they cross the street or walk near the bus.

By stopping your vehicle, you help prevent potential accidents and allow children to do so safely, as they may be less visible to drivers due to the bus's large size. The law emphasizes the importance of vigilance around school buses, where children are often present, to protect those who are most vulnerable.

Other options do not comply with traffic laws and safety practices; slowing down does not provide the same level of safety as completely stopping, passing the bus—even at a slow speed—can lead to harm, and blowing your horn is not a safe or effective way to communicate in this situation.