When should amber lamps be activated during a school bus operation?

Activating amber lights serves as a vital warning to other road users that the school bus is about to stop and that children may be entering or exiting the bus. By engaging the amber lamps 200 feet prior to stopping, drivers effectively communicate their intent and help ensure the safety of students. This distance allows adequate time for vehicles behind and beside the bus to slow down and prepare to stop, reducing the chances of accidents.

The use of this specific advance warning distance is aligned with highway safety protocols, aiming to create a safer environment for school children. This proactive measure is particularly important in high-traffic areas where sudden stops can lead to dangerous scenarios. Disabling amber lights earlier than 200 feet may not provide sufficient time for other drivers to react, which could compromise the safety of children boarding or alighting from the bus.