• 11
  • October
    2011

More than 23 million children ride school buses every weekday in the United States. While riding in a bus is statistically safer than riding in a car, getting on and off the bus can present a host of dangers for school kids.

On average, 24 children die in bus-related incidents each year. The majority of these accidents occur outside buses while the children are on foot. In most cases, the bus driver is unable to see a child when pulling away from a stop. In some cases, cars flouting safety laws hit children as they cross the street after exiting a bus.

Students should be taught some basic safety tips when getting on or off the school bus:

•· Never cross directly in front of the bus. Stay at least 10 feet in front of the bus so the driver can see you.

•· Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and the driver opens the door before trying to get on or off the bus.

•· Walk at least three feet away when walking next to the bus and don't lean on or touch the bus while walking. It could start to move and pull you under.

•· If you drop something near the bus or get your jacket, backpack or another item caught in the bus door, tell the driver right away. Do not bend down near the bus to pick something up, because then the driver can't see you.

•· Never walk behind the bus. You don't know when the driver might need to back up.

Car drivers should also keep these tips in mind:

•· Stop for red flashing lights and an extended STOP sign on the side of a school bus. You may not proceed until the STOP arm has been folded in, the red lights shut off and the bus begins to move. In most states, violation of this law can result in a ticket that carries a hefty fine.

•· Watch for children running to catch the school bus. They aren't always focused on watching out for traffic. Also watch for kids walking in the street or playing close to the road near a school bus stop.

•· Watch out for kids walking or riding bikes to school. Pay particular attention when backing out of a driveway or garage.

Parents should review the bus safety rules with any student riding the bus, and should review the driver rules with any teens that may be driving to school around the time that others are being picked up by the school bus. Keeping these tips in mind can help better ensure the safety of the nation's schoolchildren.