School is back in session in our area and this is a great time to review school bus safety. In Alberta all registered buses designed to carry more than 10 passengers, including the driver, must be inspected semi-annually. Zarowny Motors Service Department provides these inspections.
The Government of Alberta assists employers and potential new school bus operators with an eLearning pre-employment course developed in two formats. One format is a power point presentation that can be administered by an instructor which is to be delivered in a classroom setting. The second format is an on-line version and is designed for a person to do the course by themselves at their own pace from their home computer, employer’s computer or any other access to the Internet.
Bus drivers must also have a Commercial Driver’s License and adhere to the information sharing of the Commercial Driver’s Abstract and School Bus Operator’s Manual and perform a Route Risk Assessment checklist. Bus operators must also do refresher training throughout the year.
School buses share the road with other drivers and in order to keep our children safe at pick up and drop off stops, there are rules to remember. Here are the rules:
- When approaching a school bus with red lights flashing—you must come to a full stop about 20 metres (about four to five car lengths) away from the school bus. This distance allows drivers of other vehicles behind you to see the flashing lights and students crossing the highway.The fine for passing a school bus with its red lights flashing is $402 and six demerit points.
- Alternating flashing yellow or amber lights mean a school bus is slowing down to stop. Do the same.
- Watch for school safety patrollers, identified by their orange vests, and stop as directed. School safety patrollers play a vital role in directing children safely across the street.
- Examine the road ahead and obey posted speed limits. Always be prepared to slow down or stop.
On a two lane undivided highway, both lanes must stop for a school bus.
On a four lane undivided highway, all four lanes must stop for a school bus.
On a highway divided by a median, vehicles to the rear of the school bus must stop.
You can make this a great school year by driving safe, without distractions and slowing down in school zones.