Minnesota Blue Card Practice Test

What distance should you maintain away from a bus with its lights flashing?

1. 10 feet

2. 20 feet

3. 30 feet

4. 40 feet

The correct answer is: 20 feet

When a bus has its lights flashing, it is an indication that students are either getting on or off the bus. The correct distance to maintain away from such a bus is 20 feet. This distance is designed to provide enough space for children who may unexpectedly enter or exit the bus, ensuring their safety and reducing the risk of accidents. Maintaining this distance allows drivers enough reaction time in case a child runs into the road unexpectedly, as well as offering a buffer zone that protects both the bus passengers and the motorists. Some may argue for shorter or longer distances, but 20 feet is deemed a standard safety measure that balances the needs of visibility and reaction time when approaching a school bus.