Tennessee Permit Practice Test

What action should you take if you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights?

1. Speed past the bus

2. Stop regardless of direction

3. Slow down and proceed cautiously

4. Only stop if you are behind the bus

The correct answer is: Stop regardless of direction

When you encounter a school bus with flashing red lights, the correct action is to stop regardless of the direction you are coming from. The law is designed to protect children as they get on or off the bus, ensuring their safety while they are in the vicinity. Flashing red lights indicate that the bus is actively picking up or dropping off students, prompting vehicles on both sides of the road to come to a complete stop. This regulation applies to all vehicles, whether you are driving behind the bus or approaching it from the opposite direction. The requirement to stop remains in effect unless there is a physical barrier, such as a median, separating the two directions of traffic. Understanding and adhering to this rule is crucial for the safety of children and helps promote responsible driving behavior in school zones.