How to Keep Your Child Safe on the School Bus

National School Bus Safety Week runs from October 21-25. As we embrace the fall season and our children continue to learn in school, it is important to prioritize school bus safety so they travel to and from school as safely as possible.

Tips for a Safe Bus Ride

School buses are the safest mode of transportation for students. However, it may surprise you to learn that nearly two-thirds of bus-related fatalities involving school-age children happen outside of the bus itself. It is essential for students to learn how to navigate the bus, and the area outside, in safe ways.

At the Bus Stop:

• Arrive at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
• Stand 6 feet (or three giant steps) away from the curb while waiting.
• Supervise younger children.

Around the Bus:

• Cross in front of the bus – at least 10 feet (or five giant steps) – and make eye contact with the driver before crossing.
• Never walk behind the bus. Children should only cross the street in front of the bus where the driver can see them.
• If children drop something near the bus, they should never reach for it. Instead, they should alert the bus driver to retrieve the item, as the driver may not see them and could start moving.

Getting On/Off the Bus:

• Wait until the bus has completely stopped and the door opens before approaching the vehicle or standing up on the bus.
• Use the handrail for safety.
• Secure any loose or hanging objects like straps on a backpack or drawstrings on a hoodie.

Behavior on the Bus:

• Buckle up if seatbelts are available.
• Stay seated with your head, arms, and belongings inside the bus.
• Keep the aisles clear of books and bags.
• Talk quietly, as loud noises can distract the driver.
• Unless it is an emergency, wait until the bus has stopped to address a problem that needs to be discussed with the bus driver.

If your children follow these rules, it should greatly reduce the odds of being hit by a bus or injured on one.

Protecting Younger Children

Children aged 5-7 represent half of the pedestrians in school bus-related accidents. They are particularly vulnerable for several reasons:

• They are in a hurry to get on and off the bus.
• There are inexperienced around traffic and often act before thinking of consequences.
• They might assume adults will keep them safe, believing drivers will see them and wait for them to cross.
• They are smaller and more difficult for the bus driver to see, and are less likely to stay within the driver’s line of sight.

Therefore, educating younger children about bus safety is crucial for their protection.

Call Jan Dils if Your Child Was Hurt On or Near a School Bus

At Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, we are parents too. We want all children to be healthy, happy, and get home from school safely. However, if your child is involved in an accident through no fault of your own, call our compassionate bus accident attorneys today and get help from the largest woman-owned law firm in the country.