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Brake for the Bus: Back-To-School Safety Tips for CMV Drivers

Closeup of the pop-out stop sign on the side of a school bus with kids walking by.

Summer is winding down, which means school will be back in session soon. As school buses and their precious cargo – children and teenagers – return to the roads, professional drivers should proceed with extra caution. These five areas bring the biggest challenges and require your utmost attention:

1. School Zones

School zones may extend for several blocks in the vicinity of a school. Sometimes, they may include poles with yellow lights. When those lights are flashing, drivers must obey the posted school zone speed limit, which is often between 10-15 mph but can change depending on your school district. If there are no yellow lights, look for signs listing school zone hours (typically early in the morning and at mid-afternoon).

When navigating school zones, be sure to stop for all buses that have their flashing yellow lights, red lights or stop arm activated. Watch for children, teens and adults who may be crossing the road. Obey all crossing guards. Avoid distractions like eating or using a smartphone while driving.

2. Bus Stops

Make it a point to know all the bus stops on your route and plan accordingly. As you approach a bus stop, slow down. Look to see if children are standing near the bus stop. Also, scan the sides of the road and look for bicyclists and pedestrians who may be on their way to the bus stop.

3. Residential Areas

Use highways as much as possible during the school year. If you must go through a residential area, slow down. Look for children who may dart out on foot or bicycle from between parked cars. If you’re driving between 7 – 8 a.m. or 3 – 5 p.m., expect plenty of school bus traffic. Drive cautiously past schools, playgrounds and other places where children might gather.

When stopping for a school bus, leave a space cushion of at least 20 feet between your truck and the bus, so children can get on and off the bus safely. Plan extra time on your route so you’re not in a rush. And remember that buses must stop at all railroad crossings.

4. Intersections

Expect more pedestrian traffic at intersections during the school year. Do not block crosswalks at a stoplight or stop sign, or when making a right-hand turn. Children won’t always wait for a green light to cross the road, so stay alert, and expect the unexpected.

5. Right in Front of You

School buses aren’t the only sign of a new school year. So are student drivers, who are practicing their new skills on the road. Be patient whenever you encounter an inexperienced driver.


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