ICBC British Columbia Written Exam Practice Test 2025

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

1. Pass the bus at normal speed

2. Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing

3. Sound your horn to alert the bus driver

4. Proceed if there are no students visible

The correct answer is: Stop and wait until the lights stop flashing

When you encounter a school bus with its lights flashing, the appropriate action is to stop and wait until the lights stop flashing. This precaution is essential for the safety of children who may be boarding or disembarking from the bus. The flashing lights are a signal that prohibits vehicles from passing the bus, ensuring that children have a safe passage to cross the street. Stopping for a school bus with its flashing lights is not just a recommended practice; it is also a legal requirement in British Columbia and many other jurisdictions. Failing to stop can lead to severe consequences, including fines and penalties, and poses a significant risk to the safety of children. Passing the bus at normal speed is unsafe and against the law while the lights are flashing. Sounding your horn does not contribute to the safety of the situation and is not an appropriate action. Additionally, proceeding if there are no visible students overlooks the risk of children who might suddenly appear, as they can be unpredictable. Therefore, stopping and waiting reflects respect for the safety of young passengers and adherence to traffic laws.