School Bus Drivers!

If you drive for a living, you are a professional driver and as such you should be better informed than the average driver. However, it takes an above average effort to become a better informed driver.

Featured Tip:

450,000 yellow school buses provide transportation service daily nationwide;
23.5 million elementary and secondary school children ride school buses daily throughout the United States, twice a day;
That's about 47,000,000 student trips daily -- before adding an estimated 5,000,000 more for activity trips daily;

That means approximately 54% of all K-12 students in the country ride yellow school buses;

Aim High in Steering
The average driver looks only 3 to 6 seconds ahead.
-This leads to tailgaing, last second lane changes, and excessive backing.
Aiming high in steering means looking at least 15 seconds in the future.
-This allows you to analyze the traffic ahead in a relaxed, efficient manner.
Keep your Eyes Moving
-The big picture is always changing. Don't focus on one object and miss others. Maximize your use of peripheral vision by keeping your eyes moving every 2 seconds. Check your mirrors every 5 to 8 seconds.
Get the Big Picture
Position yourself so you can see everything that may cause safety problems. Follow the 4 second rule.
-5 seconds for speeds over 40 MPH. Even more  time when driving in poor weather or in reduced visibility.
Backing is potentially dangerous. -Avoid backing if possible. Ask another employee for assistance when possible. If you are not sure if the area behind you is clear, don't move!
Leave Yourself an Out
-Surround your vehicle with a "space cushion". Avoid traveling in vehicle packs which can lead to last second decisions. If something gets in your space cushion, adjust your speed to regain the lost space. When stopped behind other vehicles, leave enough room to move around the other vehicle if it stalls.
Make Sure they See You
-Use your signals and warning devices.
Signal early. Use your horn only when appropriate.

Durham Transportation

National Coalition for School Bus Saftey

2SafeSchools

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