NANCY OTHF

Tips for Staying Safe on the School Bus

  • Travel
    • UPDATED January 24, 2025

by Nancy Ennis

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With school in full swing, it’s essential to focus on staying safe both on and around school buses. Between 2013 and 2022, 976 fatal school bus crashes occurred in the U.S., with pedestrians and occupants of other vehicles being the most affected. To reduce these tragic incidents, here are essential safety tips for bus drivers, other drivers, and students.

Safety Tips for School Bus Drivers

School bus drivers are responsible for the safety of students during transport. Key safety practices include:

  1. Perform Pre-Trip Inspections
    Check tire pressure, brake lights, and emergency exits before hitting the road. Malfunctioning parts can lead to accidents or delays.

  2. Follow Speed Limits
    Adhere to speed limits, especially in school zones and residential areas. Speeding increases the risk of accidents.

  3. Promote On-Bus Safety
    Enforce clear rules such as staying seated and wearing seat belts to keep students safe while on board.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Drivers sharing the road with school buses play a significant role in preventing accidents. To ensure safety:

  1. Stop for Flashing Lights
    When a bus extends its stop sign and activates red flashing lights, stop in both directions. Passing is illegal and dangerous.

  2. Exercise Caution in School Zones
    Slow down, watch for children crossing, and follow traffic controllers’ instructions in school zones.

  3. Respect Bus Blind Spots
    Avoid tailgating or cutting off buses due to their large blind spots.

Safety Tips for Students

Students can also take steps to ensure their safety around school buses. Important tips include:

  1. Be Cautious When Boarding or Exiting
    Wait for the bus driver’s signal before crossing the street. Stay in the designated waiting area, away from the curb.

  2. Stay Seated on the Bus
    Remain seated with aisles clear while the bus is in motion to avoid injury during sudden stops.

  3. Avoid Walking Behind the Bus
    Never walk behind the bus where visibility is limited. Always stay in areas where the driver can see you.

By following these tips, bus drivers, other motorists, and students can help create a safer environment for everyone during school commutes.