When should a school bus driver check their mirrors?

A school bus driver should check their mirrors regularly throughout the route to ensure the safety of the students and maintain awareness of their surroundings. This practice allows the driver to monitor blind spots, observe the behavior of students entering or exiting the bus, and keep an eye on surrounding traffic. Regular mirror checks are essential for detecting any potential hazards that may arise during the route, such as pedestrians, other vehicles, or sudden changes in road conditions.

Relying solely on a pre-route check or only looking at mirrors during specific actions, like changing lanes, does not provide the ongoing situational awareness needed while driving. Consistent mirror checks help the driver stay alert to the environment and make informed decisions, contributing to the overall safety of the students and the driving experience.