According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
The [school bus's safety] record is impressive: American students are nearly eight times safer riding in a school bus than with their own parents and guardians in cars. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “School Bus Safety: Crashworthiness Research.” April 2002. Link.)
photo credit: http://www.schoolbusfacts.com/
The “Danger Zones” are areas that are the greatest risk of bus rider injury from traffic. This diagram shows the “Danger Zones” associated with getting on and off the bus.
photo credit: http://driving-tests.org/louisiana/la-cdl-handbook/
Drivers:
- Slow Down - watch for children waiting at the bus stop.
- Follow all school bus laws to keep our children safe.
- Stop when school bus red lights flash. Louisiana law requires motorists to stop at least 30 feet from a school bus that is loading or unloading children. Drivers are required to stop whether you are traveling behind the bus or meeting it. When a school bus is stopped in opposite lanes on a roadway separated by a ditch, grassy median, elevated concrete barrier or similar obstacle, you are not required to stop.
Students:
- Crossing the street in front of the bus: Walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to a point at least five giant steps (10 feet) ahead of the bus before you cross. Be sure that the bus driver can see you, and you can see the bus driver. Make eye contact with the driver.
- When the bus approaches, stand at least three giant steps (6 feet) away from the curb, and line up away from the street.
- Wait until the bus has stopped and the door opens before approaching the bus.
- Pay attention to your surroundings at the bus stop. Playing handheld video games or listening to music may be a distraction.
- Stay away from the rear of the bus.
- Be alert to traffic.
- If you drop something near the bus, look at the bus driver and tell them. Do not pick it up because the driver may be unable to see you.
For more tips, visit here and here.
Parents, Macaroni Kid Monroe - West Monroe encourages you to talk with your child about the importance of bus safety.
Like this article? Macaroni Kid Monroe - West Monroe is full of useful local information like this PLUS tons of kid-friendly events on our event calendar. Subscribe to our FREE weekly e-newsletter for 411 on local family fun!
