What should a motorist do when approaching a school bus that has its yellow lights flashing?

When approaching a school bus that has its yellow lights flashing, a motorist should slow down and prepare to stop. The flashing yellow lights indicate that the bus is getting ready to stop to pick up or drop off children. This serves as a warning for drivers to be cautious and ready to react because children may be entering or exiting the bus.

By slowing down, the motorist can safely navigate the situation and ensure they are ready to stop if the bus activates its red lights, which signal it has stopped completely and that children are crossing the street. The action of slowing down also allows more time for the motorist to assess the environment for any unforeseen circumstances, such as children unexpectedly running into the street.

Being vigilant and responsive when approaching a school bus is crucial for ensuring the safety of children, who may not always be aware of oncoming traffic and whose safety is a shared responsibility for all road users.