When approaching a school bus that is stopped off the roadway with its hazard warning lights flashing, should you pass the bus?

When approaching a school bus that is stopped off the roadway with its hazard warning lights flashing, it is crucial to prioritize safety, which is why the correct response is that passing the bus is unsafe. The hazard lights indicate that the bus is engaged in a potential student loading or unloading activity, regardless of whether the bus is physically on the road or off the roadway.

This situation requires extra caution because children may be near the bus, and they could move unexpectedly into the road. The flashing lights signal a warning to drivers to be vigilant for children that could be crossing or approaching the bus from various angles, including from behind or in front of the vehicle.

Regardless of whether children are visible at that moment, the unpredictable nature of their movements makes it unsafe to pass a bus in this condition. Thus, ensuring that you do not pass while the bus is indicating a potential hazard protects the children's safety.