What Makes School Buses Safer in Design Compared to Cars?

Clayton T. Hasbrook

Written by Clayton T. Hasbrook. Last modified on March 1, 2024

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School buses are a standard mode of transportation for millions of children across the United States. The safety of these vehicles, especially compared to passenger cars, is a topic of interest for many parents and guardians. I assumed school buses are less safe than driving my kids to school, but the research says otherwise.

Statistical Evidence of Safetyclassic yellow school bus driving along a road in Oklahoma

Statistical evidence supports the safety of school buses over cars. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), children are 70 times more likely to get to school safely in a school bus than in a car. School bus-related casualties account for less than one percent of all vehicular fatalities in a year. Additionally, the fatality rate for school buses is only 0.2 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, compared to 1.5 deaths for cars.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are involved in a significantly lower percentage of traffic fatalities annually compared to passenger vehicles.

From 2012 to 2021, there were 113 occupants killed in school transportation vehicles, with 52 being drivers and 61 passengers. Despite these fatalities, the overall safety record of school buses is significantly better than passenger cars.

Safety Features of School Buses

School buses are designed with numerous safety features that contribute to their reputation as safe vehicles. These features include:

  • Sheer Size and Weight: School buses can weigh 19,501 to 26,000 pounds, making them less likely to roll over in an accident.
  • Closely-Spaced Seats and Tall Seat Backs: This design protects impact by absorbing force and keeping children contained during a collision.
  • Bright Colors and Flashing Lights: The recognizable yellow color and flashing red lights make school buses highly visible to other drivers.
  • Intelligent Chassis Design: The chassis of a school bus is designed to distribute the crash force over the entire vehicle, enhancing its sturdiness.
  • Strong Windows: Federal regulations ensure school bus windows can withstand impacts without shattering.

The Role of Drivers in Ensuring Safety

Oklahoma school bus driver

The driver plays a crucial role in the safety of school bus transportation. School bus drivers undergo rigorous training and testing, including:

  • Random drug and alcohol testing.
  • Training in loading, security, and medical procedures.
  • Frequent checks of their driving records.
  • Training in student behavior management.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements

Obtaining a CDL in Oklahoma

To operate a school bus in Oklahoma, obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the first step. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, though driving a school bus across state lines requires drivers to be at least 21. The process begins with passing a general knowledge test, which qualifies the applicant for a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). After holding the CLP for a minimum of 14 days, candidates can take the CDL skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic controls test, and a road test. Completing these steps, along with passing a background check and a physical examination, results in issuing a CDL.

Special Requirements for the School Bus (S) Endorsement

CDL holders must obtain a School Bus (S) endorsement to drive a school bus. This requires passing an additional written knowledge test focused on specific aspects of school bus operation, such as handling and safety protocols for school children. Candidates must also demonstrate their capability in a skills test designed for school bus drivers, including an on-road driving test conducted with a school bus.

 

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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Clayton T. Hasbrook who has years of legal experience as a personal injury lawyer. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.