sessions covering defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness and high-risk behaviors such as speeding, dis- tracted driving and driving while fatigued. For example, training on loading and unloading procedures addresses factors such as alertness and awareness. It covers danger zones, mirror checks, use of hazard lights, lane regula- tions, and crossing procedures, among other topics. Lake Washington also holds a monthly safety com-
mittee meeting. The diverse membership includes the transportation supervisor, a bus driver, a driver-trainer, a mechanic and a risk management representative. In addition, an accident review sub-committee evaluates all incidents in collaboration with the involved driver and then determines what actions could have helped to prevent the incident.
Evolving Standards The various protective features of modern school buses are certainly keys to safe transportation, and they keep evolving. Manufacturers continue to offer improved safety options. In October, Blue Bird offered IMMI’s 4Front driver airbag as standard equipment on Vision models. “The steering wheel airbag is specifically designed for school buses and commercial vehicles,” said Albert Burleigh, Blue Bird’s vice president of North America Bus Sales.
He explained that while passenger car airbags deploy primarily in a horizontal direction toward the driver, the IMMI airbag deploys vertically, toward the school bus roof, while expanding outward at the same time. This design is aimed at protecting the driver’s chest from the wheel rim while also offering head and neck protection. Thus far, the responses have been positive from school
districts, fleet operators and bus drivers. “Adding driver airbags sends a message to school bus
drivers that their safety matters,” said Burleigh. “This as- pect of driver safety also helps school districts and fleet operators attract and retain great drivers.” Despite a perception industry-wide, there is no opt-
out provision for driver airbags on the Vision-model buses, a company spokesman confirmed.
Meeting the Challenge The imperative to maintain safe operations is a heavy
responsibility. “The safety of students is a daily weight. It’s the last thing I think about before I fall asleep and the first thing that comes to mind when I wake up,” Indiana’s Rosa said. “The greatest challenge is finding the safety gaps we are not aware of.” One strategy for addressing that challenge is focusing on the driver’s perspective.
What is the greatest safety impact on your operation? Based on 3,652 responses to a recent STN reader survey
Student/parent behavior Danger zone and crossing Aging Fleet
Crisis response and crashes
School bus yard and garage layout Cybersecurity and student data Staff shortage/school bus drivers
Training: evacuations & CSRS securement Total
1008 858 427 424 396 379 135 25
3652
28% 23% 12% 12% 11% 10% 4% 1%
100%
42 School Transportation News • FEBRUARY 2026
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