What should a driver do if a stop signal arm on the bus is extended?

When the stop signal arm on a school bus is extended, it serves as an important safety measure indicating that children are entering or exiting the bus. The law mandates that all vehicles must stop in both directions when the stop arm is extended. This requirement protects students from the dangers of passing cars while they are boarding or disembarking from the bus, ensuring a safer environment for them.

The expectation is that all drivers recognize the extended stop signal arm as a clear indication to halt their vehicles, regardless of the direction of approach. This rule is crucial for maintaining safety in school zones and around buses, allowing children to cross the street safely. Directing all traffic to stop helps to eliminate uncertainty about who must yield, reducing the likelihood of accidents.