Q. The law says you have to stop for a stopped school bus with flashing lights even if it is on a multi-lane or divided highway. Okay, so what do they consider divided? A part of Glen Cove Road north of Northern Boulevard is separated mostly by a large grassy median and, in some places, by a metal divider. I notice that most of those on the opposite side do not stop, and those that do run the risk of being rear-ended by the others. Are drivers on both sides of the road required to stop? What is the law on this? - M.F., Merrick, NY

A. Flashing lights indicate the bus is picking up or discharging students. According to New York State law, when the red lights on a school bus flash, motorists must stop unless waved on by the bus driver or a police officer. This applies to all roadways-even a six-lane highway divided by a solid concrete barrier-and whether you are approaching the vehicle from behind or from the opposite direction. Failure to obey this law carries a first-conviction fine of $250 to $400 and five points on your driver's license. Although the lack of exemptions for substantially divided roadways may seems to defy common sense, studies show that most school bus-related deaths and injuries occur while children are crossing the street, not while, they are passengers on school buses.