Practice question

What should a driver do when encountering a school bus with its stop sign extended?

  1. Slow down and proceed carefully
  2. Stop regardless of the direction of travel
  3. Continue driving if no children are present
  4. Only stop if traveling on the same road

Answer: B — Stop regardless of the direction of travel

When a driver encounters a school bus with its stop sign extended, stopping is the appropriate action regardless of the direction of travel. This law is in place to protect children who may be exiting or entering the bus. The stop sign and flashing red lights indicate that children might be crossing the road, creating a high-risk situation where children could unexpectedly step into traffic. By stopping, drivers ensure the safety of these children and comply with traffic laws designed to prevent accidents. This regulation demonstrates the importance of vigilance and caution near school buses, as children may be unpredictable and not fully aware of their surroundings.

Practice more: Washington Written Drivers Permit Practice Test →