What should you do if you see a school bus with its red lights flashing?

When you see a school bus with its red lights flashing, the correct action is to stop your vehicle and remain stopped until the lights are turned off. This law is in place to ensure the safety of children who may be boarding or disembarking from the bus. When the red lights are activated, it signals to all drivers that they must completely halt their vehicles, as children are likely to be crossing the street or moving near the bus.

Approaching a school bus with flashing red lights poses significant risk if you choose to ignore the signal. Accelerating past the bus would not only violate traffic laws but also endanger the children’s safety. Similarly, slowing down and proceeding cautiously does not provide the necessary protection for children who may suddenly enter the roadway; stopping is the imperative response. Honking your horn is inappropriate and unnecessary in this situation, as it could startle children or cause further confusion.

By stopping and waiting, you help maintain a safe environment for children around the school bus, aligning with Florida law and best practices for road safety.