How should you proceed if you are in a school zone and see a vehicle stopped ahead?

When approaching a stopped vehicle in a school zone, the appropriate action is to stop and wait until it is safe to proceed. School zones are designated areas where the safety of children is a priority, and drivers must be especially cautious. A stopped vehicle may indicate that children are either boarding or disembarking from a school bus, or it may simply be letting children cross the street.

By stopping and waiting, you ensure that you give ample time for any pedestrians or cyclists that may be present. This practice not only adheres to traffic laws intended to protect vulnerable road users but also fosters a safe environment in areas where children frequently interact with vehicles.

Other options, such as driving around the stopped vehicle, could create dangerous situations by putting children and pedestrians at risk. Continuing at the same speed may result in a failure to react appropriately to an unforeseen hazard. Honking your horn might startle children or confuse them, leading to unpredictable movements. Therefore, the safest and most responsible course of action is to stop and wait until it is clear to proceed.