Traffic law mandates that an ambulance must do what when encountering a stopped school bus?

When responding to a stopped school bus, traffic laws generally require an ambulance to wait until the school bus driver retracts the stop sign. This is crucial for ensuring the safety of children who may be entering or exiting the bus. The actions of a stopped school bus, signaled by extended stop signs and flashing lights, indicate that children are potentially in the vicinity, and vehicle operators must exercise caution.

The requirement for the ambulance to wait aligns with the broader goal of protecting vulnerable populations, particularly children, who may be unpredictable and may not be visible to drivers in a moving vehicle. By waiting for the bus driver to retract the stop sign, the ambulance ensures that it does not pose a risk to children's safety.

Other actions such as ignoring the bus when the lights are off or speeding past do not prioritize safety and violate established traffic laws regarding school bus stops. Signaling the bus to move may create confusion and is not an appropriate response in this situation. Therefore, waiting for the safe retraction of the stop sign reflects adherence to both legal obligations and safety protocols.