When approaching a school bus stop, what should the driver do with the warning lights?

School bus warning light sequence: AMBER (YELLOW) lights: Activate the alternating amber warning lights BEFORE reaching the stop (per state law — often about 100-300 feet or 5-10 seconds in advance, more on high-speed roads) to warn traffic that the bus is about to stop; RED flashing lights + STOP ARM: When the bus stops to load/unload, activate the red flashing lights and extend the stop arm — this legally requires other traffic to STOP.

Procedure: Amber lights (approaching/slowing) → stop the bus → red lights and stop arm (loading/unloading) → after students are safely clear, deactivate and proceed.

Why: The amber-then-red sequence gives traffic progressive warning; the red lights and stop arm legally compel other vehicles to stop, protecting children crossing.

State law: Specific activation distances vary by state.

Driver responsibility: Use the correct light sequence, ensure traffic has stopped, and only load/unload when safe; the warning light system is central to school bus safety — it warns and legally stops surrounding traffic so children can board, exit, and cross safely; proper use of the amber and red light sequence is a key school bus endorsement topic.