What is the best thing to do if you are a school bus driver and there is a breakdown?

• A. Activate the alternating flashing amber lights
• B. Get all of the passengers off the bus as soon as possible regardless of the problem
• C. Place an approved warning device a few meters in front of the bus to alert other drivers
• D. Stop the bus as far off the roadway as practical and radio for help if you cannot fix the problem

Answer: (D)

During a breakdown, the priority is to move the bus out of the traffic lane and get help. Stopping as far off the roadway as practical reduces the risk for students and other drivers, keeping everyone safe from passing traffic. If you can’t fix the problem quickly, radio for help so you can get professional assistance while the bus remains in a safe location. Using warning lights and warning devices is important, but the essential action is to get the bus out of the travel lane and contact dispatch or roadside assistance. Evacuating passengers immediately or relying only on a short warning device in front doesn’t address the immediate safety risk of being in or near active traffic.