School Bus Safety Week

At the start of every school year, we hear reminders to drivers to be cautious around school buses and pick-up and drop-off locations. This year, for National School Bus Safety Week, the Highway Patrol is taking a different angle. They’re focusing on the responsibility of the students to be good bus riders – and the parents to teach them how. Some of the tips they offer:

 – Pay attention at the bus stop and stay on the sidewalk or shoulder of the road
-  Stay seated when the bus is in motion and keep the aisles clear
 – If you have to cross the street when you get off the bus, stay at least 10 feet in front of the bus
 – Talk quietly on the bus and never put any part of your body out of the window

The Patrol says eliminating distractions on a bus is helpful for the driver and can help reduce crashes. Last year, five people were killed and 457 injured in 969 crashes involving school buses.