School buses must stop at railroad grade crossings under what condition?

School buses are required to stop at railroad grade crossings to ensure the safety of passengers, especially when students are on board. The primary purpose of this regulation is to prevent accidents and protect children, who may not be aware of the dangers associated with crossing train tracks.

When a school bus approaches a railroad grade crossing, it must come to a complete stop, look in both directions, and listen for any oncoming trains. This action is crucial when students are present, as their safety takes priority. The necessity for such a stop is rooted in the responsibility of bus drivers to safeguard the well-being of their passengers.

Other conditions, such as peak hours or bad weather, do not dictate the need for a bus to stop at railroad crossings. The requirement does not change based on traffic conditions or environmental factors; instead, it is a consistent safety measure designed to prevent tragic incidents involving trains and school buses. This underscores the importance of vigilance at these potentially hazardous locations, particularly when children are involved.