When is it permissible for a school bus driver to use 4-way hazards?

Using 4-way hazards is specifically allowed for school bus drivers during backing maneuvers because it alerts other drivers and pedestrians that the vehicle is not moving in the usual manner and that caution is required. When a school bus is backing up, it may not be clearly visible or expected by surrounding traffic, so activating the 4-way hazards serves as an important signal. This enhances safety by informing others to be vigilant and provides the driver with additional visibility to avoid potential accidents.

In different scenarios, such as during inclement weather or when stopped at traffic lights, other signals and procedures take precedence over using hazard lights. For instance, while picking up students, the school bus should use its stop sign and flashing lights instead of hazards to ensure that drivers clearly understand when to stop. Therefore, using 4-way hazards is specifically intended for situations like backing up, where clear communication of the bus's status is crucial to ensure safety.