Drive Smart: Safely Sharing the Road with School Buses
Safely Sharing the Road with School Buses
As the school year kicks off, our roads will once again see the familiar sight of yellow school buses transporting children to and from their classes. For drivers, this means adjusting their routines and habits to ensure the safety of the young passengers these buses carry. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a newcomer to the road, it's crucial to understand the importance of sharing the road responsibly with school buses.
At PITT OHIO we prioritize the well-being of every driver on the road, so we have curated the following list of essential tips for safely navigating the road around school buses.
Always stop when a school bus has its stop sign extended and red lights flashing.
Keep a safe following distance behind a school bus. This gives you enough time to stop when the bus does.
Slow down and be extra cautious when driving in school zones, especially during morning and afternoon hours when buses are most active.
Children may unexpectedly cross the road after exiting the bus. Be vigilant and ready to stop at any moment.
Buses often need to merge back into traffic after a stop. Be courteous and allow them to do so safely.
Follow all traffic laws, signals, and signs, especially those related to school zones and school bus stops.
In rural areas, school bus stops may be less visible. Slow down and stay alert when approaching areas where children might be waiting.
Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions like texting or using your phone, especially near school buses.
If you're driving behind a bus, allow some extra room. The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus.
When a bus is parked, look around for students passing in front of or on the side of the bus.
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By following these tips, you contribute to the safety of school children and help create a safer road environment. We hope this information will help ensure our roads remain safe for everyone, especially the young students embarking on their educational journey.
Safe Travels!