districts that purchase large school buses with seatbelts can maximize their effec- tiveness and benefit by improving proper usage. The study looked at the common components of seatbelt use policies, such as how policies were carried out by drivers, and consequences for non-compliance, and how those factors influenced seatbelt use. Results were released in March. “While the opinions on seatbelts varied
between drivers, the drivers who invested the most time and effort into enforc- ing the seatbelt policy derived the most benefits,” commented Kristin Rosenthal, a highway Safety specialist at NHTSA. “Most respondents observed that seatbelts contributed to calmer and less distracted environments on the bus.” Some proponents of having mandatory
seatbelts feel so strongly that they have devoted their personal time to the issue. One such citizen advocate is Rudy Breg-
lia, an Ohio resident. Breglia has made it his mission to promote lap/shoulder belts in school buses. He’s even spoken to the State Board of Education in Columbus on the importance of lap/shoulder belts for student safety. “I was very pleased to present as much information as I could, testifying to the benefits of seatbelts,” Breglia said. “Many districts, including Philadelphia, Denver, Dallas, Indianapolis, and Atlanta, are among the cities requiring seatbelts in their new school buses.” Besides the obvious safety issues, Breglia
also touts the economic factors of having seatbelts available. The potential lawsuits that could occur if children are injured as a result of school bus crashes could result in huge settlements. “I believe there’s enough evidence to say that not having seatbelts is a standard of care issue. It’s a gamble to deprive students of a basic safety tool.” He noted that fire extinguishers are re-
Read NHTSA’s report on how seatbelts can improve student behavior:
TM seat information tracking system |
freedmanseating.com
Seat sensors track occupancy and belt status, and wirelessly communicates to the bus driver.
A head unit displays seat status of all passenger seats, records and stores data in case of an event.
Expandable system customizable for vehicle layouts with up to 90 passengers.
www.stnonline.com 49
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