Final answer:
In general, you are required to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing and a stop arm extended when traveling on a road with two or more lanes, although there could be exceptions if there is a physical median. Always consult local traffic laws for specific regulations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Are you required to stop for a bus displaying red lights and a stop sign if you are going in the opposite direction on a road with 2 or more lanes? The general rule is that you must always stop for a school bus that is loading or unloading children when its red lights are flashing and the stop sign is extended, regardless of the direction you are traveling. However, this requirement can vary slightly depending on local laws and road configurations. For a multi-lane road, if there is a physical barrier or median separating the opposite direction lanes, you may not be required to stop if you are on the other side of that barrier. Always check your local traffic laws to be sure as there could be differences depending on the jurisdiction.
Regarding the situation where a traffic signal might be necessary for speed control and pedestrian safety, it's important to obey traffic laws at all times for the safety of all road users. Special circumstances, like the one described with a pregnant woman needing to get to the hospital urgently, must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with the highest priority towards safety and the potential consequences of law-breaking.