Make sure the lights on the bus have stopped flashing, all warning signs are retracted, and the bus is back in full motion before your car goes into motion.
2. A - Always Stop. Never pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. As mentioned in the previous tip, kids can be unpredictable. You never know when a kid may decide to turn around and run back to the bus to retrieve something they forgot or may drop their homework papers in the middle of the road and have to stop to pick them up. Always stop for school buses.
3. F - Fifteen Feet. Research has shown that the 15 foot area around the school bus is most dangerous for children. Make sure your car stops far enough back to allow children enough space to safely enter and exit the school bus... at least 15 feet!
4. E - Educate Yourself. When was the last time you picked up a drivers manual?
Most people will probably answer, "As a teenager when I took my drivers exam."
Others may not have even picked it up then. Did you know that you can get the latest copy of your states drivers manual for free?
Visit your local DMV or get a free digital copy by selecting your state at the website:
5. R - Respect the Big Yellow Bus. Imagine driving something with the height and heft of a school bus.
Now, imagine trying to focus on driving while carrying about 40 rambunctious kids ranging from ages 5 to 15 years old. Could be somewhat stressful.
Let's do what we can to not add any extra stress on to those courageous and brave souls that we call "bus drivers".
Thank you,
Shanda Anders
