The Safety Rules for Atlanta School Bus Drivers That Parents Should Know (2023)

School buses are a vital part of the education system in Atlanta. They transport students to and from school, field trips, and other school-related events. While school buses are considered one of the safest forms of transportation, accidents can happen. Therefore, it is crucial to educate parents about the safety rules for Atlanta school bus drivers. In this article, we will discuss 15 essential safety rules for Atlanta school bus drivers that parents should know.

Proper Pre-trip Inspections

Atlanta school bus drivers are required to conduct pre-trip inspections every day before driving the bus. This includes checking the tires, brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and other essential parts of the bus. If a problem is found during the inspection, it must be fixed before the bus can be driven.

Loading and Unloading

Loading and unloading are critical safety issues for school bus drivers. Children must enter and exit the bus in an orderly fashion, using the handrails and steps. Drivers should make sure that students are a safe distance from the bus before allowing them to cross the street.

Securing Belongings

Loose objects, such as backpacks or musical instruments, can become dangerous projectiles during a sudden stop or accident. Atlanta school bus drivers must ensure that all belongings are secured safely to prevent injury to students.

Seat Belts

While school buses are not required to have seat belts, some Atlanta school buses are equipped with them. Drivers must make sure that students are wearing their seat belts correctly and at all times.

Obeying Traffic Laws

Atlanta school bus drivers must obey all traffic laws, including speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals. They should also be aware of school zone speed limits and adjust their speed accordingly.

Proper Lane Usage

School bus drivers should always use the right lane when possible and avoid making sudden lane changes. They should also use the designated bus lanes when available.

No Cell Phone Use

Atlanta school bus drivers are prohibited from using cell phones while driving. This includes talking, texting, or any other use of the phone.

Emergency Procedures

In case of an emergency, Atlanta school bus drivers should follow proper emergency procedures, including evacuating the bus if necessary. Drivers should also be familiar with first aid techniques and how to handle emergency situations.

Special Needs Students

Atlanta school bus drivers must be trained to transport special needs, students, safely. They should know how to use specialized equipment, such as wheelchair lifts, and how to handle students with disabilities.

Weather Conditions

Atlanta weather can be unpredictable, and school bus drivers must be prepared for all conditions. Drivers should be trained to drive in adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog. They should also adjust their driving accordingly, taking into account reduced visibility and slippery road conditions.

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Railroad Crossings

School bus drivers in Atlanta must be vigilant when crossing railroad tracks. They should stop at all railroad crossings, open the bus door and window, and listen for any approaching trains before proceeding.

School Bus Stop Arm Laws

School buses in Atlanta are equipped with stop arms that extend when the bus is stopped to pick up or drop off students. Drivers must ensure that the stop arm is activated and that all traffic is stopped before allowing students to enter or exit the bus.

Prohibited Items on the Bus

Atlanta school bus drivers should enforce rules regarding prohibited items on the bus. This includes items such as weapons, drugs, alcohol, and hazardous materials. Drivers should conduct regular checks of the bus to ensure that no prohibited items are present.

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Bus Evacuation Drills

Atlanta school bus drivers should conduct regular bus evacuation drills with their students. This includes teaching them the proper procedures to exit the bus in case of an emergency, such as using emergency exits and moving to a designated safe area.

Reporting Accidents

If an accident occurs, Atlanta school bus drivers must report it immediately to the appropriate authorities. This includes contacting law enforcement, school officials, and parents or guardians of the students involved.

Conclusion

The safety of students is a top priority for Atlanta school bus drivers. By following these 15 safety rules, drivers can ensure that students are transported safely to and from school and other school-related events. Parents should also be aware of these rules and reinforce them with their children to promote safe bus transportation.

FAQs

Q: Are seat belts required on Atlanta school buses?

A: While not all school buses in Atlanta are equipped with seat belts, some buses do have them. Drivers must ensure that students are wearing seat belts if they are available on the bus.

Q: What should my child do in case of an emergency on the school bus?

A: Atlanta school bus drivers conduct regular bus evacuation drills with students to prepare them for emergencies. Students should follow the driver’s instructions and exit the bus using the emergency exits and move to a designated safe area.

Q: Can my child bring personal belongings on the school bus?

A: Yes, students are allowed to bring personal belongings on the school bus, but they must be secured properly to prevent injury during sudden stops or accidents.

Q: What should I do if my child’s school bus is involved in an accident?

A: If your child’s school bus is involved in an accident, you should be notified by the school or the school district. You should also follow any instructions provided by the school or law enforcement.

Q: How can I contact my child’s school bus driver?

A: Atlanta school bus drivers are usually employed by the school district. You can contact the school or the school district to obtain contact information for your child’s bus driver.