What should a driver do if they encounter a school bus with its stop sign extended?

When a driver encounters a school bus with its stop sign extended, the appropriate action is to stop and wait until the sign is retracted. This law is designed to protect children who may be boarding or disembarking from the bus. The extended stop sign serves as a clear indication that students are in the vicinity and may be crossing the street.

By stopping, the driver not only complies with traffic regulations but also ensures the safety of the children, who may not be fully aware of their surroundings as they get on or off the bus. It is critical to be aware that it is illegal to pass a school bus with its stop sign extended, regardless of the presence of a median or divided roadway, in most jurisdictions, including the Maldives. This regulation emphasizes the importance of vigilance around school zones and reinforces the concept of shared responsibility for child safety on the road.