When encountering a school bus that has its lights flashing, what must you do?

When you encounter a school bus with its lights flashing, stopping at least 20 feet away from the bus is crucial for the safety of children getting on or off the bus. This distance allows for a safe buffer, ensuring that children have enough space to cross the street safely without the risk of being hit by a vehicle.

The flashing lights indicate that the bus is either loading or unloading students, and stopping not only complies with the law but also demonstrates a commitment to keeping children safe. In most places, including Michigan, laws are in place to enforce this requirement strictly, supporting the protection of young pedestrians.

If a driver were to drive past the bus slowly, it would still pose a danger as children may unexpectedly cross the road. Honking the horn or proceeding without stopping could distract or startle children, leading to dangerous situations. Thus, stopping at least 20 feet away is the correct course of action to ensure everyone's safety.