What type of light must school buses be equipped with for traffic control at stops?

School buses must be equipped with an overhead warning light system to ensure that drivers are properly alerted when the bus is either stopping or has stopped to load or unload students. This warning system usually consists of flashing lights located at the top of the bus, designed to catch the attention of oncoming traffic and increase safety during these critical moments.

The overhead lights play a crucial role in protecting children as they enter or exit the bus, as they signal to other vehicles that they need to stop. This is especially important in busy or residential areas where children may unexpectedly cross the street. Proper usage of these lights can significantly reduce the risk of accidents involving students boarding or disembarking from the bus.

While additional lights such as flashing beacons or stop sign lights may serve their purposes in different contexts, the specific requirement for school buses is the comprehensive overhead warning light system that effectively broadcasts their activity to surrounding traffic.