What is the effect of passengers not wearing a seatbelt on a school bus?

When passengers do not wear a seatbelt on a school bus, the most significant consequence is the increased risk of injury in the event of an accident. Seatbelts are designed to keep passengers securely in their seats, minimizing movement during a crash or sudden stop. In the absence of seatbelts, passengers can be thrown around the bus's interior, leading to potential collisions with other passengers or bus fixtures, which can result in serious injuries.

Additionally, the design of most school buses incorporates high seat backs and compartmentalization, which generally provides some level of protection. However, this safety feature works best when all passengers are seated and restrained. Without seatbelts, even minor incidents could lead to greater injury to unrestrained passengers. Thus, the lack of seatbelt usage significantly heightens the risk of injury during accidents, making it crucial that all students and passengers adhere to safety regulations regarding seatbelt use.