What is the minimum seating capacity for a commercial vehicle to be categorized as a 'bus' under the Traffic Safety Act?

Under the Traffic Safety Act in Alberta, a vehicle is categorized as a 'bus' when it has a minimum seating capacity for 11 passengers, excluding the driver. This classification is important as it determines the specific regulations and safety standards that apply to commercial vehicles transporting passengers.

In this context, the importance of the number 11 lies in its differentiation from smaller passenger vehicles. Vehicles designed to carry fewer passengers, such as vans or cars, do not fall under the bus category and thus may be subject to different licensing and regulatory requirements. Recognizing this minimum capacity helps ensure that drivers and operators of larger vehicles are adequately trained and that the vehicles adhere to the necessary safety protocols designed for higher passenger loads.

Therefore, the answer reflecting this regulation is that a commercial vehicle must have a minimum seating capacity of 11 to be categorized as a bus.