If you are a school bus driver and there is a breakdown, what is the best course of action?

When dealing with a breakdown as a school bus driver, the best course of action is to stop the bus as far off the roadway as practical and radio for help. This approach minimizes risks to the safety of the students and other road users.

By positioning the bus away from traffic, the driver ensures that students can exit the bus safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, staying with the bus allows the driver to maintain control over the situation, ensuring that students remain secure until help arrives. Using the radio to call for assistance provides immediate communication with dispatch or roadside assistance, thus facilitating a quicker response.

This option prioritizes safety and effective problem resolution, in contrast to stopping in the lane of traffic, which poses a danger to both the students and other vehicles. Walking for assistance could lead to increased risk, removing the driver from their responsibility for the students, while continuing to drive despite a breakdown could exacerbate the situation and compromise safety further.