Capítulo 3 de 332% del examen
Safe Bus Driving
A loaded bus is tall, heavy, and full of people, so it stops, turns, and handles very differently from a car. Safe passenger driving means managing speed, braking smoothly, crossing railroad tracks correctly, and being ready for emergencies. This chapter covers the driving skills and habits that keep riders safe on the road.
Railroad Crossings
Railroad crossings are among the most dangerous places for a bus, so special rules apply. Buses generally must stop, look, and listen before crossing, and must never get trapped on the tracks. Careful habits at every crossing prevent catastrophic train collisions.
Stop at the right distance
Stop no closer than 15 feet and no farther than 50 feet from the nearest rail.
Look and listen
Open the door and window if required, then look both ways and listen for a train before crossing.
Cross only when clear
Do not start across unless you can completely clear the tracks without stopping.
Do not shift on the tracks
Choose a gear before crossing and never change gears while any part of the bus is on the tracks.
Evacuate if stalled
If the bus stalls on the tracks, get everyone off and far away immediately.
Speed and Curves
A tall, loaded bus has a high center of gravity and long stopping distance, so managing speed is critical. Slowing early and taking curves at a safe, steady speed keeps the bus stable and passengers upright. Driving too fast for conditions risks a rollover or a rider injury.
Match speed to sight distance
Drive so you can stop within the distance you can see ahead, adjusting for weather and traffic.
Slow before curves
Reduce speed before entering a curve or ramp, then hold a steady, safe speed through it.
Slow on slippery roads
On wet or icy roads, reduce speed and increase following distance to avoid skids.
Mind the height
Watch for low bridges, overpasses, wires, and clearance signs because buses are tall.
Braking and Following Distance
A fully loaded bus takes longer to stop than an empty one or a car, so braking must be planned early and applied smoothly. Sudden, hard stops can throw riders down, and a short following distance leaves no room to react. Good braking habits protect passengers and prevent rear-end crashes.
Allow for the load
A heavier, loaded bus increases stopping distance, so leave more room to stop.
Keep extra following distance
Follow farther behind than a car would, and increase the gap in bad weather or with a full load.
Brake smoothly
Look far ahead and brake early and gently so seated and standing riders are not thrown.
Control speed on grades
Before a long downgrade, shift to a low gear so the brakes do not overheat and fade.
Smooth Driving for Standees
When passengers are standing, every sudden movement can throw them down. Smooth acceleration, braking, and steering are essential to protect standees and seated riders alike. Looking far ahead lets you make gradual changes instead of abrupt ones.
Avoid sudden moves
Avoid sharp starts, stops, and turns that could throw standing passengers.
Accelerate gently
Give standees time to brace, and speed up smoothly rather than sharply.
Plan ahead
Look far down the road so speed and direction changes can be gradual.
Keep standees braced
Ensure standing riders hold rails or seat backs and stay behind the standee line.
Emergencies and Exits
When something goes wrong, the driver must protect passengers first. Knowing how to stop safely, evacuate, and handle a fire can save lives. Briefing riders on exits beforehand makes an evacuation faster and calmer.
Stop off the road
If you must stop for an emergency, pull completely off the road and use warning devices.
Handle fires safely
In a fire, stop, get passengers off and away from the bus, and use the extinguisher only if it is safe.
Keep exits usable
Never drive with a rear emergency door open, and keep exits and the aisle clear at all times.
Brief passengers
Tell riders where exits and equipment are so an evacuation goes smoothly.
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