If a driver sees a 'school crossing patrol' sign, what is the legal obligation?

When a driver sees a 'school crossing patrol' sign, the legal obligation is to prepare to stop for pedestrians. This sign is an alert indicating that there may be children or individuals crossing the road, particularly in proximity to schools, where safety is a significant concern. The presence of the sign indicates that drivers should be vigilant, reduce their speed, and be ready to yield to pedestrians who may be crossing or about to cross the road.

This obligation is particularly important because school zones are areas with heightened pedestrian traffic, especially during school hours. By preparing to stop, drivers help ensure the safety of children, who may not always be aware of oncoming traffic or the rules of the road. Therefore, the requirement to prepare to stop reflects a proactive approach to road safety in areas where children are likely to be, enhancing the safety of all road users in the vicinity.