Riding the School Bus transportation is safe. In fact, buses are safer than cars! Last year, approximately 26 students were killed and another 9,000 student were injured in incidents involving school buses. But more often than not, these deaths and injuries did not occur in a school bus crash, but rather when students were entering and exiting the bus. To help keep students safe, here are some safety tips to follow:
- Wait at your designated bus stop or have a safe place to wait for your bus, away from traffic and the street.
- Stay away from the bus until it comes to a complete stop and the driver signals you to enter.
- When being dropped off, exit the bus carefully and walk ten giant steps away from the bus.
- Keep a safe distance between you and the bus. Also remember that the bus driver can see you best when you are back away from the bus
- Use the handrail to enter and exit the bus safely.
- Stay away from the bus until the driver gives his or her signal that it is okay to approach.
Be aware of the traffic around you when approaching or leaving the bus pick up and drop off. Drivers are required to follow certain rules on the road concerning school buses; however, not every driver does, so be careful. Protect yourself and watch out!
