When is it permissible to pass a school bus?

It is permissible to pass a school bus when the bus lights are off and you are on the opposite side of a divided roadway because it indicates that the bus is no longer loading or unloading children. The key aspect of this scenario is the status of the bus lights; when they are off, it signals to drivers that the bus is not actively engaged in picking up or dropping off students. Furthermore, being on the opposite side of a divided roadway often means that vehicles are isolated from where children might be crossing, providing a safer environment to pass the bus without risking the safety of children.

In situations where the bus lights are on, it is mandatory to stop, as this signifies that children may be nearby, and it is critical to ensure their safety. Similarly, passing the bus at other times is regulated by strict laws to protect the well-being of students.