Bus Driver and Passenger Safety is Something All Drivers Need to be Cognizant of
Sedalia Democrat is speaking out on child and driver safety on school buses as there have been an increased number of bus accidents occurring all throughout the state of Missouri. According to the source, many times, the drivers of these buses are not the ones to blame for causing the collision and here’s why. The state of Missouri requires that bus drivers possess a class B license with (P) passenger endorsement and (S) school bus endorsement. The drivers also must have eight hours of training annually.
But the training doesn’t stop there.
According to one transportation provider, First Student, who transports students in the Sedalia School District 200, their bus drivers must go through much more training that that. First Student requires its drivers to go through an additional 25 hours of classroom instruction, five hours of lot skills, 15 hours on the road the training where the driver gets behind the wheel, and a two-hour evaluation before transporting their first child.
With bus drivers from this one provider transporting nearly 3,000 students covering 1,700 in one day, it is essential that they not only go through such extensive training but that they pass a driving and criminal background check as well. First Student, like most transportation agencies, has a zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol as well. But, with a recent bus accident that occurred in Harrisburg, Missouri leaving the bus driver, the cross-country coach, and a history teacher dead, it is time individuals begin taking responsibility for their driving.
If you sustained an injury in a bus accident in Kansas City, Missouri, it is important you become aware of the legal recourse that can be taken given the other driver caused the accident. A Kansas City, MO bus accident lawyer would be more than happy to explain this to you.
Safety Tips Drivers Should Implement When Sharing the Road with Buses
Buses transport children each and every day and most are cautious and careful in doing so. Therefore, as a motorist who might be sharing the road with a school bus or even a city bus, consider implementing these tips to help make the roadways in Missouri a safer place for everyone.
- Avoid cutting a bus off when passing and be sure you have a clear view of the bus in your rear-view mirror before getting over.
- Stay out of the “No Zone.” Most buses and even commercial trucks have blind spots on either side and up to 200 feet behind. The “No Zone” might be considered as a close distance to the bus. It is never a wise idea to ride too closely behind a vehicle that isn’t aware of your presence.
- Try and keep at least a 20 to 25 car-length distance from the bus.
- If you can, pass only on the left side.
And remember, if you engage in an accident, whether you were a passenger on a bus or involved in an accident with a bus, let USAttorneys.com connect you with a nearby Kansas City, MO bus crash attorney who can help you.
