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DMV Permit · School Buses

On a divided highway (with a physical median or barrier), what is required when a school bus stops with red lights flashing in the opposite direction?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Generally, only traffic in the same direction as the bus must stop; traffic on the opposite side of a divided highway may continue with caution (state laws vary)

  1. A All traffic in both directions must stop
  2. B All traffic must stop on every type of road
  3. C Only school buses must stop
  4. D Generally, only traffic in the same direction as the bus must stop; traffic on the opposite side of a divided highway may continue with caution (state laws vary)

Why this is the answer

On a divided highway with a physical median or barrier, most states require only traffic in the same direction as the bus to stop. Traffic on the opposite side of the barrier is presumed to be separated from any crossing students by the physical median. State laws vary on what counts as a 'divided' highway: a painted line is not enough in most states; a physical median (curbed, grassy, or barrier-separated) is required. Always verify your specific state's rule, and when in doubt, stop — a stopped car is never worse than a hit student. Even when stopping is not required, slowing down and being alert is best practice.
Source: State driver handbooks, School Bus on Divided Roads

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About this topic: School Buses

School bus questions cover when you must stop for a bus with flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, the exceptions on divided highways, and the penalties for passing a stopped school bus. This is one of 3 Rules of the Road questions on school buses, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

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