School buses in the USA are used to transport children to school, on school trips, and to other educational activities. Every day, 480,000 buses hit the streets, transporting 26 million elementary and middle school children. Distances in America are generally much greater than in Europe, and public transport does not operate as effectively.
-
Table of Contents
How the American School Bus Operates
School buses primarily provide safe transportation for children to and from school. However, the trip usually takes quite a long time because the bus stops approximately at the end of each block. The school bus route and schedule are fixed. Planning takes into account the number of students in the area, the distance from the school, and traffic conditions.
While some children walk to school in the morning, others prefer to be driven to school by their parents, and high school students often drive themselves.
In some areas, the parents of the children contribute to the operation of the school buses, while in others they are fully subsidized by the state.
-
The Safety of USA’s School Buses
School buses are subject to high safety standards. Compared to other buses, they must be able to withstand greater impact, be less prone to tipping over, and they must be equipped with an emergency exit, typically located in the aisle at the rear of the bus.
School bus seats are equipped with raised head restraints and seat belts, and the interior features special lighting and security cameras for monitoring. If a child does not follow the rules while riding, he or she may face a temporary or permanent suspension from bus service.
The American school bus is almost always yellow, a color chosen for its high visibility. Its shade is #FFD800, and its official name is “National School Bus Glossy Yellow”. A similar shade of yellow is used by taxis in New York for the same reason.
School buses are also protected by traffic regulations. You must stop at a safe distance behind a stationary or flashing bus and allow children to disembark safely. Violations can result in fines from $150 to $695, depending on the state.
In addition to color, school buses can also be identified by the “School Bus” or “Student Transportation” markings on the sides and rear of the vehicle. Drivers undergo special training and must hold a specific license to drive a school bus.
Contribute with Your Question or Personal Experience