Traffic rules when school buses are present
You need to be especially cautious when driving near a school bus. This ensures the safety of children and other road users.
When picking up or dropping off passengers, school bus drivers turn on flashing red lights and activate a compulsory stop signal. In this situation, you must come to a stop at least 5 metres from the bus.
How to behave in different situations.
On a road with two-way traffic
You may meet or pass the school bus after:
the flashing red lights are turned off
the stop signal has been retracted
you have checked that it is safe to do so
On a road with a median strip
When a median strip or other raised device separates you from the school bus, you don’t have to stop.
Near an intersection
If you have to cross or make a turn at an intersection and a school bus is stationary near the intersection:
- Respect the applicable signs (stop sign, traffic light) and priority rules.
- Be careful not to encroach on the safety zone around the bus after you finish crossing or complete your turn, to ensure the safety of any students who may be near the vehicle.
Example of a car turning right at an intersection when a school bus is stopped nearby.
Last update: February 2, 2026