What should a bus driver do if they believe the road conditions are unsafe for travel?

When a bus driver believes that road conditions are unsafe for travel, making the final decision to stop driving is crucial for ensuring the safety of all passengers. This decision reflects the driver’s responsibility to prioritize passenger safety over schedules or commitments.

If road conditions present hazards—such as ice, heavy snow, flooding, or other adverse weather—continuing to drive can put everyone on board at risk. By stopping the bus, the driver is taking proactive measures to assess the situation more thoroughly and determine the safest course of action.

While alerting school authorities or contacting emergency services can be important in certain situations, the immediate priority should be to halt operations and secure the safety of everyone on the bus. This choice underscores the driver’s authority and responsibility in making critical safety decisions in real-time, based on their judgment and the conditions they encounter.