School Bus Safety

Without a doubt, school buses are a safe and convenient way for children to travel to and from school. However, each year in the U.S., an average of 33 school-age children die in school bus-related traffic accidents. Victims are typically between the ages of five and seven and are usually hit just outside of the bus either by a passing vehicle or by the bus itself. While some children are hit due to a motorist passing a bus (which is illegal), many others are hit because they hurry to get on or off the bus, dart into traffic assuming motorists will watch out for them, or they go out of the bus driver's line of vision.

Ways to Prevent Injury at the Bus Stop

• Have a safe place to wait for the bus, away from traffic and the street.
• Arrive at the bus stop on time.
• Stay away from the bus until it comes to a complete stop and the driver signals for you to enter.
• When being dropped off, exit the bus and walk 10 giant steps away from the bus. Keep a safe distance between you and the bus. The bus driver can see you best when you are away from the bus. He or she will signal to you when you can cross the street.

Ways to Keep Safe While Riding the Bus

• Find a seat and sit down.
• Never put your head or arms out of the window on the bus.
• Keep aisles clear of backpacks.
• Use seatbelts if available.