What should you do when approaching a school bus with its stop sign extended?

When approaching a school bus with its stop sign extended, stopping at least 10 feet away from the bus is crucial for the safety of children who may be boarding or exiting the bus. This distance ensures that you are well outside the area where children may be moving to and from the bus, providing them with a safe zone.

School buses are equipped with stop signs and flashing lights for a reason: to alert drivers that children may be nearby. Stopping allows you to monitor the situation and gives children ample time to cross the street or load onto the bus safely. This action is mandated by law in many jurisdictions to protect young pedestrians and ensure their safety around school transportation areas.

The other options, such as passing the bus quickly, honking the horn, or slowing down and proceeding with caution, do not prioritize the safety of children in the same way as coming to a full stop does. Each of these choices could potentially lead to dangerous situations, as they may not provide the necessary caution and attention needed when navigating around a school bus.