Final answer:
Typically, you must stop at least 20 to 30 feet from a school bus with flashing red lights and extended stop arm, although local laws may vary. Always follow traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a school bus has its lights flashing red and the stop arm is extended, the distance you must stop from the bus is dependent on the laws in your specific jurisdiction. Generally, the required stopping distance can range from a minimum of 20 feet up to 30 feet. It's crucial to always review and follow your local traffic regulations to ensure safety.
Reaction time and braking distance will also impact how quickly a vehicle can come to a complete stop once the driver begins to apply the brakes. For a car traveling at 30.0 meters per second (about 67 miles per hour), it can take considerable distance to stop, especially in poor road conditions. In all situations involving traffic lights and stop signs, driver safety and pedestrian safety should be the primary concern.