Top Ten Tips: School Bus Safety

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

19 Aug 2006 05:29 AM

School buses can be a source of danger. While our kids are generally safe and ride to and from school day in and day out without incident, there are dangers. One of the most concerning elements is the fact that school buses are not required to be equipped with seatbelts in most areas (despite seatbelt laws in regular vehicles). Children can move great distances if hard breaking occurs and they can become injured.

Kids

1. Instruct your child to always remain seated while the bus is moving, facing forward and sitting in the seat correctly.

2. If your children are small, ask that they not be seated in the very front.

3. Encourage your child to choose the middle position if sharing a seat.

4. Tell your children to keep hands, arms (and all other body parts), inside the vehicle and never hang out the windows.

5. Instruct your child to walk clear of the bus and do his or her best to remain in the driver's line of sight when boarding or exiting the bus.

Adults

1. If you have a very young child that rides a school bus and he or she doesn't have any older siblings riding also, see if there is a neighbor of friend's child that might be able to sit with your little one.

2. Always stop when you see a school bus with stop sign extended or lights flashing, or both. Not only could you receive a ticket if you don't, but you could also injure a child.

3. Even after the bus driver turns off the lights and pulls away, pay attention and watch for children that may run back toward the bus if they forgot something. It makes sense to drive slowly and be alert any time you drive near a bus.

4. Use caution when picking up or dropping off children at school and watch for little ones running out from between school buses.

5. If your child is injured on or by a school bus, report the incident immediately. School buses are often insured separately, so you will need to file a claim with the appropriate insurance provider. You may be offered a settlement that will cover your child's medical expenses and give your child a little extra for any suffering or inconvenience. Before accepting any settlement, make sure your child won't need further medical attention. Once you agree to a settlement, the insurance company is not liable for any further expenses.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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