Bus Safety Newsletter: What Families Need to Know About Student Transportation Safety

More students are transported to school by bus than by any other method. Bus transportation is statistically safer than car transportation per mile traveled. But bus incidents do occur, and most of the serious student injuries involve behavior at the bus stop or crossing near the bus, not crashes. These are preventable through communication and education.

Bus Stop Safety

The most dangerous moment in school bus transportation is not the ride. It is the arrival and departure from the bus stop. Teach families and students the specific rules for bus stop safety.

Arrive at the stop several minutes early so there is no rushing to catch the bus. Stand back from the curb while waiting. When the bus arrives, wait for it to come to a complete stop before approaching. If crossing the street is necessary, cross in front of the bus, not behind it, and walk at least ten feet ahead of the front bumper so the driver can see the student. Always make eye contact with the driver before crossing.

On the Bus

Stay seated with seat belts fastened when the bus is in motion. Keep the aisle clear. Keep voices at a level that does not distract the driver. Do not put hands or heads out of windows. Treat the bus driver with respect.

Explain to families that bus driver distraction is the most significant controllable risk factor in school bus accidents. Students who understand this are more likely to take on-bus behavior rules seriously.

Emergency Procedures

Students should know where the emergency exits are on the bus and that they are only used when directed by the driver or emergency personnel. Exiting through emergency exits without instruction can expose students to traffic hazards. The newsletter should briefly explain what a bus emergency drill looks like so students who experience one are not frightened.

Reporting Concerns

Give families a specific contact for bus safety concerns. Driver behavior, student misconduct, unsafe bus stops, and route timing problems all have more effective resolution when families know exactly who to contact.