What should a driver do when approaching a school bus with red stop warning lights flashing?

When a driver approaches a school bus with red stop warning lights flashing, the appropriate action is to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. This is a critical safety measure mandated by traffic laws to protect children who may be getting on or off the bus. The red lights indicate that the bus is either loading or unloading students, and it is essential to ensure that the area around the bus is safe and clear of moving vehicles before any children cross the street. Stopping not only complies with the law but also helps prevent accidents, making sure that students can exit or enter the bus safely.

While other options involve either cautious movements or honking the horn, none provide the immediate safety that stopping presents. Honking, for instance, does not contribute to safety in this scenario and can be distracting or alarming. Similarly, changing lanes or proceeding cautiously could pose a risk to children who may unexpectedly enter the road. Therefore, the complete stop is the best response in ensuring the safety of young passengers.