The school bus is one of the safest forms of transportation. However, getting on and off the school bus is the most dangerous part of the school bus ride. Children are the most common pedestrians and also the group that is most at risk for pedestrian-related injury and death. To learn more about our initiatives and partners, click here.
School Bus Safety Tips for Children:
- Stand at least 10 feet or 5 giant steps away from the road while waiting for the bus.
- Never run, push, or shove by the bus stop.
- Get on the bus only when it is completely stopped.
- Always hold the handrail getting on and off the bus.
- Get on and off the bus without pushing.
- Stay out of the “Danger Zone” directly around the bus.
- Cross the street 10 feet in front of the bus keeping eye contact with the driver; never cross behind the bus.
- Stop at the edge of the bus and look LEFT, RIGHT, and then LEFT again for passing cars.
- Tell the bus driver if something drops near the bus; never bend down near or under the bus.
Pedestrian Safety Tips for Children:
- Learn and obey traffic signals and signs.
- Cross the street at corners using traffic signals and crosswalks.
- Never run out between parked cars or in the middle of the block.
- Always look LEFT, RIGHT, and then LEFT again before crossing the street.
- Walk on the sidewalk when possible.
- Walk facing traffic.
- Always watch for cars.
- Hold hands with an adult while in parking lots.
- Never run out into the street for any reason.
- Play in safe places away from the street.
- Never play in the driveway.
Download the printable School Bus and Pedestrian Safety Tip Card