When are drivers required to stop for a school crossing guard?

Drivers are required to stop for a school crossing guard when the guard is holding a stop sign. This sign indicates that children are either present or are about to cross the street safely. The presence of the stop sign signifies an active request for vehicles to stop, ensuring the safety of children near schools and crosswalks.

While it may seem that drivers could only stop when children are present, the signaling by the guard with the stop sign is the critical instruction that must be followed. This protocol helps maintain a safe environment during school hours, as guards are specifically trained to manage pedestrian traffic at these vulnerable locations. Other scenarios, such as when the guard is waving their hands or simply being near a school, do not carry the same legal obligation for drivers to stop.