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Category: School Bus Safety

The Importance of Safety Features on Buses

Posted on by American Bus Sales
American Bus Sales

 

As communities continue to grow and evolve, so do our transportation needs. More and more people are relying on buses for their daily commute, school transportation, and group travel. With this increase in demand comes the responsibility of ensuring the safety of passengers.

At American Bus Sales, we understand the importance of having well-equipped buses that are equipped with essential safety features. In this blog, we will discuss why these features are crucial and what you need to know about them.

Why Are Safety Features Important?

What You Need to Know

When purchasing a bus, it’s essential to ensure that it comes equipped with these essential safety features. However, having them installed is only half the battle. It’s crucial for drivers and operators to know how to use them effectively.

Apart from safety features, there are also other important factors to consider for overall bus safety:

• Regular maintenance and inspections help ensure buses are in good working condition and identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.

• Proper training for drivers is crucial as they are responsible for the safety of their passengers. This includes defensive driving techniques and knowledge of emergency procedures.

• Safety regulations and standards set by organizations such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) help ensure that buses meet certain safety requirements.

Why Choose American Bus Sales?

At American Bus Sales, we take pride in providing our customers with top-quality buses that prioritize safety. Our vehicles go through rigorous inspections and maintenance to ensure they meet all safety standards. We also offer a variety of bus types, including wheelchair-accessible options, to cater to different needs.

Additionally, we have a team of experienced professionals who can assist with any questions or concerns regarding bus safety features and regulations. We are dedicated to providing safe and reliable transportation solutions for our customers.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, having proper safety features on buses is crucial for the well-being of passengers and drivers. It’s essential to prioritize this when purchasing or operating a bus. At American Bus Sales, we are committed to providing safe and reliable transportation solutions for all our clients. Let us help you keep your passengers safe on the road.

So, if you’re in need of a new bus or looking for ways to improve the safety of your current fleet, look no further than American Bus Sales. We’ve got you covered! Contact us today at (866) 574-9970 to learn more about our buses and services. 

Contact Us

Contact Us Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM-4:30PM

Website: https://americanbussales.net/

Phone: 1-866-574-9970

Address: 12802 North 103rd E Ave, Col

The primary concern when it comes to any form of transportation is safety. Whether you’re traveling by car, plane, or bus, it’s essential to have safety measures in place to protect passengers in case of an accident. This is especially true for buses that carry a large number of people.

Having proper safety features on buses not only protects passengers but also provides peace of mind for drivers and operators. It ensures that everyone onboard is as safe as possible, and this is a responsibility we take seriously at American Bus Sales.

What Are the Essential Safety Features?

When it comes to buses, several key safety features are crucial for ensuring the well-being of passengers. These include:

Emergency Exits In case of an emergency, quick evacuation is crucial. That’s why buses are equipped with emergency exit windows that can be easily opened for passengers to escape. These windows are designed to be large enough for the average person to fit through and usually come with breakable glass or push bars for easy opening. Bus manufacturers have also started implementing additional safety features on these windows, such as alarms that sound when they are opened. This helps prevent unauthorized use during regular trips and ensures that passengers only use them in an emergency.  

Emergency Lighting and Reflectors In low light or emergency situations, it’s crucial for buses to have proper lighting and reflectors. This helps other drivers on the road see the bus and avoid collisions. Emergency lighting systems are also essential in case of a breakdown or accident. They can be used to signal for help and keep passengers safe while waiting for assistance.  

Fire Suppression Systems In the event of a fire, having a fire suppression system on board can be life-saving. These systems use water or gas to quickly extinguish flames before they spread and cause significant damage. They are often installed in engine compartments, where fires can start due to mechanical failures. Fire suppression systems not only protect the passengers but also prevent costly repairs or replacements due to fire damage. It is an essential safety feature that every bus owner should have on their vehicle.  

Seat Belts While seat belts may seem like a standard feature on vehicles, they were not always present on buses. However, as safety regulations become more stringent, bus manufacturers have started including safety belts in their designs. Seat belts not only protect passengers in case of an accident but also help keep them seated during sudden braking or sharp turns. This feature is especially important for children and elderly passengers, who may have a harder time maintaining balance on a moving bus.  

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) ABS is a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain control of the vehicle. This technology has been proven to reduce stopping distances and prevent accidents caused by skidding. For buses, which often carry heavy loads and make frequent stops, ABS is a crucial safety feature. It also helps with overall road stability and can improve fuel economy by reducing tire wear.  

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Electronic stability control is a safety feature that helps prevent rollovers and skidding. This technology uses sensors to monitor the bus’s movement and applies brakes or adjusts engine power to keep it stable. With the increased size and weight of buses, maintaining stability on the road is crucial for avoiding accidents. ESC has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of rollover accidents, making it an essential safety feature for all buses.

What You Need to Know

When purchasing a bus, it’s essential to ensure that it comes equipped with these essential safety features. However, having them installed is only half the battle. It’s crucial for drivers and operators to know how to use them effectively.

Apart from safety features, there are also other important factors to consider for overall bus safety:

• Regular maintenance and inspections help ensure buses are in good working condition and identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.

• Proper training for drivers is crucial as they are responsible for the safety of their passengers. This includes defensive driving techniques and knowledge of emergency procedures.

• Safety regulations and standards set by organizations such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) help ensure that buses meet certain safety requirements.

Why Choose American Bus Sales?

At American Bus Sales, we take pride in providing our customers with top-quality buses that prioritize safety. Our vehicles go through rigorous inspections and maintenance to ensure they meet all safety standards. We also offer a variety of bus types, including wheelchair-accessible options, to cater to different needs.

Additionally, we have a team of experienced professionals who can assist with any questions or concerns regarding bus safety features and regulations. We are dedicated to providing safe and reliable transportation solutions for our customers.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, having proper safety features on buses is crucial for the well-being of passengers and drivers. It’s essential to prioritize this when purchasing or operating a bus. At American Bus Sales, we are committed to providing safe and reliable transportation solutions for all our clients. Let us help you keep your passengers safe on the road.

So, if you’re in need of a new bus or looking for ways to improve the safety of your current fleet, look no further than American Bus Sales. We’ve got you covered! Contact us today at (866) 574-9970 to learn more about our buses and services. 

Contact Us

Contact Us Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM-4:30PM

Website: https://americanbussales.net/

Phone: 1-866-574-9970

Address: 12802 North 103rd E Ave, Col

Understanding the Features and Regulations of a School Bus

Posted on by American Bus Sales
American Bus Sales

School buses are an essential part of our education system, providing safe transportation for students to and from school. As parents, teachers, and members of the community, it is crucial to understand the features and regulations of these vehicles to ensure the safety of our children.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are one of the safest modes of transportation in the United States. However, accidents can still occur, making it imperative to prioritize safety first when it comes to school buses.

In this blog post, we will discuss the essential features and regulations that make school buses a safe mode of transportation for students.

The Importance of School Bus Safety

One of the main reasons why school buses are preferred over other modes of transportation is because they can accommodate a large number of students at one time. This eliminates the need for multiple trips or vehicles, reducing traffic congestion and potential accidents on the road.

Regulations for School Bus Safety

In addition to these features, there are also strict regulations in place to ensure the safety of students on school buses. These regulations are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state agencies.

Driver Qualifications

School bus drivers must meet specific qualifications, including training and certifications before they can operate a school bus. This ensures that they are knowledgeable about safety protocols and equipped to handle emergency situations.

Regular Inspections

School buses must undergo regular inspections to ensure that all safety features are functioning properly. Any issues found during these inspections must be addressed immediately to maintain the safety of students.

Seat Belts

While not required in all states, some school buses are equipped with seat belts for added safety. These include lap belts or three-point harnesses that secure students in their seats.

Speed Limits

School buses have a federally mandated speed limit of 60 mph on highways and 50 mph on other roads to prevent accidents caused by speeding.

Importance of Following Safety Protocols

While school bus manufacturers and regulations play an essential role in ensuring safety, it is also crucial for everyone involved to follow safety protocols. This includes:

• Students: It is essential for students to listen to their bus driver’s instructions, remain seated while the bus is in motion, and avoid any disruptive behavior that could distract the driver.

• Parents: As parents, it is essential to educate our children on safe practices while riding the school bus. We can also review bus safety rules with them regularly to ensure they understand and follow them.

• School Bus Drivers: It is the responsibility of school bus drivers to follow all safety protocols and regulations, including proper maintenance of the vehicle, conducting regular safety checks, and staying alert while driving.

• Other Drivers: It is crucial for other drivers on the road to be aware of school buses and their flashing lights or stop sign arm. They should always come to a complete stop when behind a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing.

What Parents Can Do

Parents play a significant role in ensuring the safety of their children on school buses. Here are some tips for parents to follow:

• Teach your child proper behavior on the bus, such as staying seated and keeping noise level down

• Instruct your child to wait for the bus in a safe location and to always look both ways before crossing the street

• Check for any recalls or safety concerns with your child’s school bus

• Communicate with your child’s school about any special needs or accommodations needed for safe transportation

Trust American Bus Sales for Safe School Buses

At American Bus Sales, we understand the importance of school bus safety and only provide top-quality new and used school buses that meet or exceed safety regulations. We also offer the option for customization to add on additional safety features as needed.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we are proud to be a trusted provider of school buses for schools and organizations across the country. Contact us today at (866) 574-9970 to learn more about our selection and how we can help ensure the safety of your students during their daily commute.

Contact Us

Contact Us Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM-4:30PM

Website: https://americanbussales.net/

Phone: 1-866-574-9970

Address: 12802 North 103rd E Ave, Collinsville, OK 74012

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “school buses are the safest mode of transportation for getting children back and forth to school.” This is due to the many safety features and regulations that have been implemented over the years.

School bus accidents are rare, but when they do occur, they often result in minor injuries due to these safety measures. Additionally, school buses are designed with high visibility and conspicuous colors to make them easily recognizable on the road, reducing the likelihood of collision.

School Bus Features for Safety

One of the most obvious safety features of a school bus is its size. The large, sturdy design provides protection in case of impact. But beyond this, there are several other features that contribute to the overall safety of a school bus.

Emergency Exit Windows

In case of an emergency or accident, quick evacuation from the school bus is crucial. This is why school buses are equipped with emergency exit windows that can easily be opened from the inside for a quick escape.

Cross View Mirrors

School bus drivers have limited visibility when it comes to seeing the area immediately in front of and beside them. To combat this, school buses are equipped with cross-view mirrors that allow drivers to see these blind spots more clearly.

Stop Arm and Flashing Lights

When a school bus stops to pick up or drop off students, its stop arm is extended, and flashing lights are activated to signal other drivers to stop as well. This ensures the safety of students crossing the street in front of the bus.

Emergency exits

School buses are required to have multiple emergency exits, typically located at the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. This allows for quick evacuation in case of an emergency or accident.

High seating capacity

One of the main reasons why school buses are preferred over other modes of transportation is because they can accommodate a large number of students at one time. This eliminates the need for multiple trips or vehicles, reducing traffic congestion and potential accidents on the road.

Regulations for School Bus Safety

In addition to these features, there are also strict regulations in place to ensure the safety of students on school buses. These regulations are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and state agencies.

Driver Qualifications

School bus drivers must meet specific qualifications, including training and certifications before they can operate a school bus. This ensures that they are knowledgeable about safety protocols and equipped to handle emergency situations.

Regular Inspections

School buses must undergo regular inspections to ensure that all safety features are functioning properly. Any issues found during these inspections must be addressed immediately to maintain the safety of students.

Seat Belts

While not required in all states, some school buses are equipped with seat belts for added safety. These include lap belts or three-point harnesses that secure students in their seats.

Speed Limits

School buses have a federally mandated speed limit of 60 mph on highways and 50 mph on other roads to prevent accidents caused by speeding.

Importance of Following Safety Protocols

While school bus manufacturers and regulations play an essential role in ensuring safety, it is also crucial for everyone involved to follow safety protocols. This includes:

• Students: It is essential for students to listen to their bus driver’s instructions, remain seated while the bus is in motion, and avoid any disruptive behavior that could distract the driver.

• Parents: As parents, it is essential to educate our children on safe practices while riding the school bus. We can also review bus safety rules with them regularly to ensure they understand and follow them.

• School Bus Drivers: It is the responsibility of school bus drivers to follow all safety protocols and regulations, including proper maintenance of the vehicle, conducting regular safety checks, and staying alert while driving.

• Other Drivers: It is crucial for other drivers on the road to be aware of school buses and their flashing lights or stop sign arm. They should always come to a complete stop when behind a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing.

What Parents Can Do

Parents play a significant role in ensuring the safety of their children on school buses. Here are some tips for parents to follow:

• Teach your child proper behavior on the bus, such as staying seated and keeping noise level down

• Instruct your child to wait for the bus in a safe location and to always look both ways before crossing the street

• Check for any recalls or safety concerns with your child’s school bus

• Communicate with your child’s school about any special needs or accommodations needed for safe transportation

Trust American Bus Sales for Safe School Buses

At American Bus Sales, we understand the importance of school bus safety and only provide top-quality new and used school buses that meet or exceed safety regulations. We also offer the option for customization to add on additional safety features as needed.

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we are proud to be a trusted provider of school buses for schools and organizations across the country. Contact us today at (866) 574-9970 to learn more about our selection and how we can help ensure the safety of your students during their daily commute.

Contact Us

Contact Us Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30AM-4:30PM

Website: https://americanbussales.net/

Phone: 1-866-574-9970

Address: 12802 North 103rd E Ave, Collinsville, OK 74012

Changes You’re Going to Start Seeing in the School Bus Industry as Children Start Heading Back into School

Posted on by American Bus Sales
Family Wearing Face Masks

After a full year of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen more schools reopening and signs showing that life is making its shift back to “normal” conditions. As schools reopen, we have seen several safety precautions in place and a steady change in how school bus fleets are being operated.

Here are some big changes you’re going to start seeing in the school bus industry as children start heading back into school:

Physical Changes to Your School Bus

Electric School Buses Are Gaining in Popularity

There is a slow but steady change in how school buses are being powered. Shortly, we expect to find only electric buses in a large proportion of fleets. According to the Biden Administration, we may see the change being to shift soon because they are planning for an all-electric U.S. bus fleet for both transit and schools by 2030.

Changes to Help Electrify Fleets

In the future, you can expect to see more of a vehicle to grid technology, which enables the use of electric bus batteries for energy storage and selling electricity back. Switching to a pay-as-you-save program will help customers install more energy-efficient and cost-effective systems.

Changes to Transportation

Besides the school bus structure, you’re also going to notice some significant changes to how your school bus operates. From attempting to keep students physically distant to promoting new safety procedures, there are quite a few changes these days.

Keeping Windows Open on The Bus

Weather permitting, most school buses are making it a rule to keep their windows open to increase outdoor air circulation. Drivers will continue to keep their windows open as long as it does not pose any safety or health concerns to the riders.

Masks Must Be Worn on The Bus

One of the most important rules that bus drivers are implementing is enforcing both children and adults to wear masks while riding the bus and at arrival/departure points. Bus drivers have been keeping extra masks on their buses to give to students who may have forgotten theirs. This rule is usually mandatory across states unless an individual has a medical condition in which they can’t safely wear a mask.

Seating Restrictions

Seating assignments are one of the biggest changes that we’ve started to see on buses. Typically, there is just one student seated per row, alternating window and aisle seating. If it’s possible, drivers will usually assign seating by skipping a row. Members of the same household can sit with each other, and usually, each bus rider will have a designated seat that is the same every day. In some cases, you may find that your bus driver will also provide a partial plexiglass partition between the driver and passenger sections.

Visual Signage Will Be Added to Buses

When you enter a school bus, it will be common to see signage with visual cues to encourage physical distancing protocols. The signs will also be useful to communicate this information to students with vision or reading disabilities.

As more and more schools are making the switch back to in-school learning, these are just a few changes that you can expect to see from your school bus fleet. School bus drivers must follow CDC guidelines and prevention recommendations, including cleaning and disinfecting the bus.

If you’re looking to add buses to your fleet as you prepare to head back to school, please contact American Bus Sales to learn more about our new and used buses selling nation-wide.

6 Great Benefits of Installing a Camera System into Your Fleet

Posted on by American Bus Sales

School buses and shuttle buses always have a constant flow of passengers. A bus driver can only monitor so much while they focus on the road ahead. Nowadays, you’ll find more and more fleets installing camera systems into their school buses and shuttles.

Many benefits come with installing a camera system into your fleet. Besides providing the drivers and passengers with extra security, it can also monitor behaviors and increase bus safety.

Let’s look a little more closely at some of the amazing benefits of adding a camera system into your bus or shuttle:

Camera Systems for School Buses

Driver Protection

Bus drivers trust that their passengers will act appropriately while riding the bus. However, sometimes things can get out of hand. That’s where your security camera comes in! By having a security camera on your bus, you can monitor any inappropriate or aggressive behavior on the bus.

Your security camera will help investigate any unacceptable behavior, and it will be permanently documented in case you need to look back on it.

Ensures Student Safety

Because security cameras help monitor students, the drivers, and other staff on the bus, your school district can ensure maximum safety. Your camera will always be running from the minute the student enters the bus until they’re back home.

Notifying students that the bus has a camera system will also help discourage bullying or inappropriate behaviors. When students are aware that their actions are being monitored, they will be discouraged from acting inappropriately for fear of being punished.

Ensures Safety When Crossing

Now, many fleets are also placing cameras on the stop-arm of their bus. Having a stop-arm camera will help capture any stop-arm violations. It will also document key details like the date, time, location, and license plate number of the vehicle. All these details will help law enforcement review the incident.

Drivers who don’t follow these rules will receive tickets for which they are responsible for paying very heavy fines.

Monitor Driver Behavior

Not only will your video systems monitor your passenger’s behavior, but it will also monitor your driver’s behavior. Although it’s rare, there are times where drivers can get involved in issues such as impulsive driving, improper behavior, violating traffic laws, or frequently running behind schedule.

Being recorded on a surveillance system will help to ensure that your drivers are more careful about driving and that their job responsibilities remain a priority.

Camera Systems Help Track When Students Board and Exit the Bus

In the rare event that a school official gets a call from a parent who is missing their child, your school bus will be able to provide clear evidence to help determine the child’s whereabouts. Your school bus camera system will track when and where a student is picked up and dropped off.

Helps Prevent Theft on the Bus

The presence of a security camera will also help to prevent theft between passengers on the bus and to deter any other destruction or violence. In the case of an incident breaking out, the monitors can help alert local authorities if needed.

Installing Camera Systems to Your Fleet

Are you looking to install a camera system in your fleet? At American Bus Sales, we will install camera systems and other new technology to your fleet to ensure maximum safety.

Give us a call today at 866-574-9970 to learn more about our bus services!

How To Become A School Bus Driver

Posted on by American Bus Sales
How To Become A School Bus Driver

Being a school bus driver can be an enriching career with many benefits. There are several required steps when pursuing becoming a school bus driver.  These include a variety of tests, a safe history of driving, and a CDL endorsement. The main task of a school bus driver is to safely transport students to and from school and other related activities. Drivers also have to obey traffic laws, adhere to driver policies within their school district, and be able to address students who misbehave while riding the bus.

Here are the specific requirements for becoming a school bus driver:

Requirements can vary from state to state, so you may want to research what you will need to become fully certified in the state in which you reside or plan to work.

To work as a driver, you must also be a U.S. citizen and be 18 years of age or older with at least a high school diploma.

Physical Exam – According to Federal law, all commercial drivers are required to carry a Department of Transportation medical card. This physical exam must be conducted by a licensed medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration National Registry.

This physical exam will need to be updated every two years during the drivers’ career to ensure that they can safely perform all of their required duties.

Drivers may also be required to pass a drug and background check. Because they will be transporting children, it is imperative that the driver is deemed safe.

Training – For people with no prior knowledge of school bus driving, there are training courses that teach the necessary knowledge and practical skills required for employment as a CDL driver. This is a prerequisite for taking the CDL test, which all school bus drivers have to complete. Prices for training courses may vary, but many schools offer to pay for driver’s training course fees.   

Commercial Driver’s License – Drivers will be required to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). There are a few different types of CDLs; however, school bus drivers must have an (S) endorsement. This shows that they have passed additional tests specific to school buses.

How To Become A School Bus Driver

State Requirements – Requirements can vary from state to state, but most states require drivers to be first aid certified. Even if this is not needed, it is a valuable skill, especially for those working with children. This certification may also increase your chances of getting hired.

Practice – Before beginning your job, you may be required to practice with an existing school bus driver for several hours. This is an opportunity for you to learn the routes, specific rules for your school, and best driving practices.

Here are a few other skills school bus drivers should have:

  • Excellent Communication – School bus drivers will need to communicate with students, parents, and the school, so it is important that they are comfortable doing this in a clear and respectful manner.
  • Patience– Students can be particularly rowdy on the bus at times, and it is key for drivers to have patience and remain calm even in seemingly stressful situations.
  • Quick Reaction Time – Drivers need to react to changes on the road quickly to ensure their own safety and the safety of the students on the bus.

With these steps completed, you will be on your way to a rewarding career in the school bus driving industry.

Dedicated to quality and safety, American Bus Sales offers a variety of buses to suit a wide range of transit needs. Our professionally inspected pre-owned school buses, shuttles, and coaches are both safe and reliable. View our school bus inventory here!

Tips for Encouraging Health & Wellness for Bus Drivers

Posted on by American Bus Sales
Tips for Encouraging Health & Wellness For Bus Drivers

Driving a school bus is not a very labor-intensive job, but over time being seated for so long can have an impact on the driver’s body. According to Gallup, a study of 14 occupation groups ranked transportation workers as having the highest obesity rate, 36%.

While this statistic can be alarming, there are ways to combat this and help encourage healthy lifestyles within the transportation industry.

A driver that is more physically fit will be able to perform their job better and quickly react to situations that occur while driving.

Here are a few tips to share with your fleet for health and wellness: 

Sitting for prolonged periods of time can cause muscle strains in your back.

Use these stretches to help alleviate muscle tension. 

  • Chest stretch– This is a great stretch to loosen tension in your chest and shoulders. For this stretch, stand in an upright position. Next, place your hands behind your back and interlock your fingers. Pull your interlocked hands back as far as possible.
  • Spinal twist– In a seated position, contract your abs by breathing inward with your back straight. Next, twist your torso from side to side. This will help improve your overall posture, release tension in you back, and relieve pain.
  • Forearm Stretch– As a bus driver, your arms can get incredibly tight while keeping them on the steering wheel. This stretch can be done in a seated position or standing up. Start with your right arm outstretched straight ahead of you. Point your hand down, so your fingers are pointed toward the ground. With your left hand, gently pull your hand toward you. Hold this stretch for 20-30 seconds then repeat on your left arm.

Another way to help school bus drivers stay healthy is to encourage healthy eating habits. Being on the go, it can be challenging to find healthy eating options, but it is good to encourage your fleet to opt for easy nutritious foods when possible.

Here are a few options for on the go snacks:

  • Jerky
  • Trail Mix
  • Greek Yogurt
  • Tuna
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Almonds

We hope these tips will help encourage healthy choices within your fleet and influence your drivers to be more mindful of their overall wellbeing.

American Bus Sales is one of the nation’s leading pre-owned school bus sales companies. Dedicated to quality and safety, American Bus Sales sells a variety of buses to suit a wide range of transit needs. View our school bus inventory here!

School Bus Maintenance Tips for the Winter Months

Posted on by American Bus Sales

Winters can be extremely harsh on school buses, so it requires a specialized maintenance plan for the added strain of cold air, ice, and snow. To keep your bus running efficiently throughout the entire winter, you need a specific winter maintenance plan that prevents problems unique to the season such as rust, tire slippage, or engine problems.

While it is always best to have your bus maintenance plan in place ahead of time, it is never too late to get started.

Here are a few tips to help maintain your bus throughout the bitter cold of the winter season:

  • Keep all lights, mirrors, gauges, exhaust, suspension, emergency accessories, etc., operational. A driver should not start a route if a bus problem is detected.
  • Replace any slick tires in order to maintain good traction, especially for winter driving.
  • Install new wiper blades if needed and check washer fluid levels.
  • Check the heater and the defroster unit for efficient operation.
  • Inspect the engine compartment for cracked water hoses, frayed belts, leaking water pump or radiator, etc. Replace or repair as needed to prevent potential problems.
  • Check the weather-stripping around the emergency door to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the bus.
  • Replace broken or cracked window glass and check to see that all windows close securely to protect passengers from the rain and cold.
  • Inspect fuel systems for leaks, cracked lines, loose mounting brackets, etc.
  • Check the cooling system regularly. Do not neglect this system.
  • Keep a timely record of service, repairs, or inspections done on each bus.

With these tips, you can ensure that your fleet is running efficiently throughout the season. American Bus Sales is one of the nation’s leading pre-owned school bus sales companies. Dedicated to quality and safety, American Bus Sales sells a variety of buses to suit a wide range of transit needs., American Bus Sales also specializes in maintaining used school buses. Visit our service page or call our service department at 1-866-574-9970 ext. 102 to schedule a service or maintenance check for your bus!

How Technology Makes School Buses Safer

Posted on by American Bus Sales

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, students are about 70 times more likely to get to school safely when traveling by school bus than traveling by car. Although school buses are the safest way to transport students, there are still improvements that can be made to make school buses even safer and more secure.

Here are a few technological advances that have improved safety on school buses:

Cameras

 One of the main issues regarding bus safety is drivers illegally passing the bus. This creates a dangerous situation that could ultimately result in fatalities. Some school buses have implemented cameras in the stop arm to monitor drivers and ensure that illegal passers are caught and punished. By catching people who illegally pass buses it will help decrease this occurrence and keep children safer as they get on and off the bus.

Another way cameras help to keep school buses safe is by using them to eliminate blind spots. Because school buses are such large vehicles there are a lot of instances where drivers may not be able to see children approaching the bus. Some school buses use back-up cameras, so the driver is able to have a complete view of anything behind the bus.

GPS Tracking 

In addition to cameras, GPS tracking is also being implemented on certain school buses. This helps parents keep track of buses and ensure that they arrive at the stop in time to retrieve their children from the bus stop. There are even apps that allow parents to see their child’s bus’s exact location.

WIFI

While WIFI is not a safety measure, it is a technological advancement that helps provide a better riding experience for students. With WIFI enabled school buses, students are allowed to catch up on homework, study, and do research during their ride. This can help them stay focused and possibly help reduce the number of school bus fights.

American Bus Sales is committed to providing safe and reliable buses to suit a wide range of transit needs. With customization options including audio systems, on-board WIFI, and GPS navigation there are endless possibilities for finding the perfect bus for your transportation needs. View our school bus inventory here!

School Bus Safety

Posted on by American Bus Sales
group of teen students walking out of school bus after school

In April 1939, a professor at Teachers College, Columbia University organized a conference in which established the standard color of yellow now known as National School Bus Glossy Yellow. This color was chosen because it has been scientifically proven that this particular shade of yellow is hard for other drivers to miss, thus further ensuring the safety of its passengers.

Recently, there has been an increase in school bus-related accidents. School bus drivers, passengers, and other drivers need to understand the school bus safety protocol. It is everyone’s responsibility to uphold safety rules to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

Here are a few tips for motor vehicle operators to help ensure the safety of school buses on the road: 

  • Do not pass school buses when the stop sign is visible. Many drivers ignore the school bus stop sign and believe that it may be safe to go around, it is not. This can potentially lead to a fatal accident- it is also illegal.
  • Pay attention to lights- The flashing yellow light signifies that the school bus is preparing to stop. This means you should slow down and prepare to come to a stop or navigate around the bus. The red light and extended arm mean the bus is loading/unloading. It is not safe to navigate around the bus at this point.
  • Watch out for children- After a school bus has unloaded the passengers, be mindful of where the children are as you drive away. Sometimes children do not pay attention and can potentially put themselves in danger on the road. As a driver, it is important to be vigilant. 

Despite school bus-related accidents, students are 70 times more likely to get to school safely when taking a bus, as opposed to traveling by car. To ensure that students remain safe on school buses, everyone on the road needs to understand the general safety rules.

American Bus Sales is one of the nation’s leading pre-owned school bus sales companies. Dedicated to quality and safety, American Bus Sales sells a variety of buses to suit a wide range of transit needs. With customization options including audio systems, on-board WIFI, and GPS navigation there are endless possibilities for finding the perfect bus for your transportation needs. View our school bus inventory here!

Bullying on the Bus Needs to End

Posted on by American Bus Sales

Bullying on the bus is an inevitable part of growing up. Luckily if we are aware of bullying than it will be easier to handle the issue.

 

We are aware that a lot of bullying happens on the school bus. It is probably because the students only have one adult supervisor, and he or she should be mainly focused on the road. There is also a large age range of children that ride the bus. This means there is a power imbalance between the little guys vs the older students.

 

A lot of children ride the bus on the way to school. If they are bullied on the way, then it is likely to impact the rest of their afternoon. Their negative behavior could disturb the climate of the classroom. Making it hard to focus and learn.

 

So, what can bus drivers and administrators do to prevent bullying from happening on the way to and from school?

 

First, train and strengthen bus drivers.

Because the driver is usually the only adult on board, it is important that the driver is aware of the responsibility on his or her shoulders. The driver needs to be aware of the channels to go through to report bullying. The U.S. Department of Education’s Safe and Supportive Schools Technical Assistance Center and the National Association for Pupil Transportation provide free online materials to train bus drivers in how to recognize and address bullying on the bus.

 

Second, installing video cameras is an important step.

Cameras can both deter bullying behavior and provide details of incidents when they do occur. The students should be made aware that there are cameras on the bus and that the resolution is excellent and that sound is also recorded.

 

Third, communicate your behavioral expectations with the students and the parents.

Send a letter to parents that reviews school bus policies and rules.

 

We all agree bullying is unacceptable: on the bus, at school, or anywhere in the community.  By recognizing the signs of bullying, knowing how to react to it, and getting involved to prevent bullying, both parents and students can make the school bus the first step toward a bully-free learning environment.