What should you do in a school zone when lights are flashing?

• A. Stop completely and stay there until the zone ends.
• B. Continue at the posted speed.
• C. Stop only if a crossing guard is present.
• D. Slow down and proceed with extreme caution; be prepared to stop for children.

Answer: (D)

Flashing lights in a school zone signal that drivers must be extra alert because children may be crossing the street at any moment. The best approach is to slow down and proceed with extreme caution, being ready to stop if a child steps into the roadway or if a crossing guard signals you to stop. This safety-minded behavior helps protect pedestrians in a zone where kids can appear suddenly. Stopping completely isn’t required unless a child is actually in the crosswalk, and simply continuing at the posted speed or stopping only when a guard is present doesn’t account for the real risk of children crossing unexpectedly.