What must drivers do when stopping for a school bus with its stop arm extended?

When a school bus has its stop arm extended, drivers are required to stop their vehicles and wait until the bus signals that it is safe to proceed. This law is in place to protect children as they get on or off the bus, ensuring they can cross the street safely. Stopping is crucial because children may not always look out for traffic when getting on or off the bus, and the bus stop arm is a clear signal that children are present.

Continuing to drive, even at a safe speed, poses a significant risk to children who may unexpectedly enter the roadway. Slowing down and proceeding with caution does not provide the same level of safety as a complete stop. Honking to alert children is not an appropriate response and could potentially startle a child or lead to confusion. Therefore, stopping ensures the safety of everyone involved.