Which type of weather can adversely affect how a school bus handles?

Weather conditions such as rain, ice, and snow significantly impact a school bus's handling and safety. When roads become wet or icy, the friction between the tires and the road surface is reduced, leading to longer stopping distances and a greater risk of skidding. Snow can create obstacles and make driving more challenging due to reduced visibility and traction.

Additionally, rain can lead to hydroplaning if the bus goes too fast for the conditions, where the tires lose contact with the road surface. Ice presents a particularly dangerous scenario as it can form black ice—often invisible to the driver—resulting in sudden and unpredictable loss of control. Given these factors, it's crucial for bus drivers to adjust their driving behavior in adverse weather conditions to ensure the safety of their passengers.

While heavy winds can also affect vehicle handling, especially for larger vehicles like buses, the specific combination of rain, ice, and snow presents a broader range of hazards that directly complicate driving conditions. Clear skies, while ideal for driving, do not pose handling risks, and fog primarily affects visibility rather than the handling characteristics of the bus itself.