Washington Written Drivers Permit Practice Test

When must a driver stop for a school bus?

1. Only when other vehicles are stopping

2. When the stop sign is extended and the lights are flashing

3. When approaching from the opposite direction

4. Drivers do not need to stop

The correct answer is: When the stop sign is extended and the lights are flashing

A driver must stop for a school bus when the stop sign is extended and the lights are flashing because this indicates that children may be getting on or off the bus. The law is designed to protect students as they enter or exit the bus, as they are often in close proximity to traffic. Stopping when these signals are activated ensures that the area around the bus is safe for children, who may not always be aware of their surroundings or the actions of passing vehicles. In situations where the bus is stopped with its lights flashing and stop sign extended, all drivers must come to a complete stop regardless of the direction from which they are approaching. This rule applies to both lanes of traffic on a two-lane road and to vehicles traveling in both directions on larger roads, ensuring maximum safety for children. Understanding this rule is vital for all drivers to ensure the safety of students and to comply with traffic laws in Washington.