What must be true for a school bus driver to use the stop arm and flashing lights?

• A. The bus must be in motion
• B. All passengers must be seated
• C. The bus must be stopped with pupils boarding or alighting
• D. None of the above

Answer: (C)

For a school bus driver to use the stop arm and flashing lights, it is essential that the bus is stopped with pupils boarding or alighting. This practice is in place to ensure the safety of students as they get on or off the bus. The use of the stop arm and flashing lights signals to other drivers that they must stop and allow students to safely cross the road or approach the bus.

When the bus is in motion, the stop arm cannot be extended, as this would create a dangerous situation for both the bus passengers and other road users. Additionally, while it is good practice for passengers to be seated before the bus moves, this condition does not determine when the stop arm and lights can be activated; rather, it is the action of loading or unloading students that necessitates their use. Hence, option C accurately reflects the necessary condition for deploying the stop arm and flashing lights for student safety.