Page 30 - School Bus Operators and Attendants Handbook

Defensive Driving Procedures

The Bus Driver should always use defensive anticipation, (driving conservatively and defensively),
assuming other Operators will do something unexpected and dangerous. This should be done
rather than aggressive anticipation (assumption that other Operators know your intentions and
will give you the right-of-way).

Three Basic Principles Operators should remember at all times:

1. Maintain plenty of visibility, making sure the path of travel can be seen
2. Maintain plenty of space around your bus; and
3. Maintain plenty of time to think and react.

Five Basic Rules

Bus Drivers should observe the five principles of safe driving of the Smith System:

1. Aim High in Steering: Look way ahead of your vehicle so you are aware of the complete traffic
scene in front of your vehicle. Anticipate obstacles, lane changes, turns, stops, and other road
problems far in advance. Look at least 15 seconds or 1000 feet ahead of you.
2. Get the Big Picture: Put all the information together from all perspectives so that you have a
complete mental picture of the traffic environment around your vehicle.
3. Keep your Eyes Moving: Use an orderly search pattern that involves glances near and far to
the front, sides, in the mirrors, and at the instrument panel. “Be aware of your surroundings
at all times.” Consistent eye movement prevents your body from entering the daydreaming
state, keeping you alert to every driving condition ahead of you.
4. Leave Yourself an Out: Always maintain an adequate time and space cushion around your
bus. Do not follow other vehicles too closely, and always anticipate what choices other
Operators make.
5. Make Sure They See You: Communicate your intentions to other Operators, so you are sure
they understand your plans. Use your lights, horn, and get eye contact before moving the
bus. When stopped at a red light, after the light turns green, look left, then right, then left
again, before proceeding to ensure the intersection has cleared.

 Use the IPDE system to enhance your defensive driving tactics.

1. I=Identify relevant clues…
2. P=Predict their significance…
3. D=Decide what you should do…
4. E= Execute your decision.

Page 30 of 149
Defensive Driving Procedures