Understanding the Rules When Passing a Stopped School Bus

When you're behind the wheel, few things are as nerve-wracking as dealing with school buses. You see that big yellow bus, and suddenly, your mind races through the what-ifs and how-tos. It's no wonder that many drivers hesitate, caught between wanting to keep kids safe and needing to maintain traffic flow. What you really need to know is simple: when passing a stopped school bus on the opposite side of a divided road, you can pass without stopping.

Wait, what? Yes, you heard that right! In Minnesota and many other states, divided roads, with physical barriers or medians, provide a safety buffer, allowing for smooth sailing while keeping children safely protected. So, driving past that stationary bus while staying alert is not only permitted but is often the best course of action.

But before you think you can cruise by carelessly, here’s the thing: Always be on the lookout for kids who might dart across the road. The law allows you to pass, but your eyes should be glued to the road and surroundings at all times. Children are unpredictable, and their safety supersedes any traffic regulation. Keep those senses sharp—you never know when a little one might be running to catch their ride or rushing back from school.

Knowing when and where to stop is also super important, especially when you’re driving around a bus in different scenarios that may not be on a divided road. You see, laws can change depending on the state you’re in, and what might be the norm in Minnesota might differ in neighboring states or even counties. So, it’s wise to brush up on the regulations that apply to your unique area.

Now, let's put it in perspective. Imagine you’re driving on a wide road, crystal clear ahead, with that bus off to your right. The bus is stopped, but hey, there’s a median separating you from any possible encounters. It’s like having a buffer zone, waving you along with a sense of reassurance. The moment you start slowing down to a stop or inching forward, that could create trickery for others on the road. The drivers behind you might not understand why you're pausing, and you could inadvertently throw everything into chaos.

It's easy to jump to 'Always stop' or 'Only stop if signaled' options when you see a big yellow bus at a standstill. But in reality, choosing to pass without stopping is both a smart and lawful decision on divided roads. Just be sure to keep that vigilance high—those children are your priority!

In summary, while it's tempting to err on the side of caution around school buses, the law acknowledges the safety measures provided by divided roads. So, the next time you find yourself facing a stopped school bus on the opposite side of a divided road, you know what to do! Just remember to pay attention, stay aware, and do your part to keep our kids safe.