When is it permissible to pass a school bus with its red lights flashing?

The correct answer is that it is never permissible to pass a school bus with its red lights flashing. This is a crucial safety regulation designed to protect children who are either boarding or disembarking from the bus. When a school bus activates its red lights, it signals drivers that they must stop in order to allow children to safely cross the road or approach the bus.

The law regarding this is strict across many states in order to enhance the safety of students. Ignoring this regulation can lead to severe penalties, including fines and points on a driver's record, and more importantly, it can pose a significant risk to children's safety. Thus, no situation permits passing such a bus with its red lights on, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and caution when driving near school buses.