Millions of children ride school buses each school day. Did you know that the school bus is one of the safest vehicles on the road? Less than 1% of all traffic fatalities involve children on school transportation vehicles. However, children are more at risk when approaching or leaving a school bus. It’s important for all drivers, as well as parents and students, to understand school bus safety.
When you see a school bus slowing down or stopping, you need to watch not just the bus but the surrounding area, too. Children wait at least several feet away from a bus and often cross the street when they’re boarding or getting off. This is why you must stop for school buses and don’t attempt to pass.
Illegal School Bus Passing
Illegal school bus passing poses a significant threat to children and others on the road. In every state, it is illegal to pass a school bus while the stop arm is extended and the red lights are flashing.
Understanding School Bus Lights
Learn the school bus laws in your state and always follow them, as well as the flashing lights that school bus drivers use to alert you.
- Yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is preparing to stop to load or unload children. You should slow down and prepare to stop your vehicle.
- Red flashing lights and extended stop arms indicate the bus has stopped and children are getting on or off. You must stop your car and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop-arm is withdrawn, and the bus begins moving, before you can start driving again.
- Before the Bus Arrives
- Your child should arrive at the bus stop at least five minutes before the bus arrives. Ahead of the new school year, visit the bus stop and show your child where to wait for the bus, at least ten feet — five giant steps — away from the curb. Remind your child that the bus stop is not a place to run or play.
- Getting On and Off Safely
- When the school bus arrives, your child should wait until the bus comes to a complete stop, the door opens, and the driver says it’s okay to get on or off. Your child should use the handrails to avoid falling.
- Always Use Caution Around the Bus
- Your child should never walk behind a school bus. If your child must cross the street in front of the bus, tell them to walk on a sidewalk or along the side of the street to a place at least ten feet — five giant steps — in front of the bus before crossing. Your child should also make eye contact with the bus driver before crossing to make sure the driver can see that they’re crossing to avoid the danger zone. If your child drops something near the school bus, like a phone or book, the safest thing is for your child to tell the bus driver right away. Your child should not try to pick up the item, because the driver might not be able to see them.
