Buying a School Bus – 10 Important Points You Should Know

Buses are in high demand in the market and are purchased by different organizations. However, the buyer always finds it a difficult job to know where to begin.

Preliminary research is anyway required as when you would buy some other vehicle. Then, it is all about sourcing the vehicle and finally negotiating to get the best deal.

But it is important to realize that there are a few factors that set buses apart from other vehicles that you are otherwise familiar with.

As in other walks of life, planning is the most important factor. You should have a clear image of the school bus that you want to have. The following points will help you to start on the right note:

Read Also: Top 10 School Bus Companies

1. Size

The range of passenger capacity of a bus is very varied. Whereas there are buses that carry single digit numbers, there are others that ferry 300 people.

Larger buses are difficult to manoeuvre on the road and it is difficult to find parking space for such vehicles. For such buses, both the initial investment and the long-term running costs are higher.

For any school, the cost of the bus is a major factor. Hence, for a school, choosing a bus with a capacity that closely fits the number of students to be accommodated is important.

2. Parking

Before buying the school bus, it is important to ensure that the school property, as well as the school district, has the space required for the vehicle to be parked.  There may be local regulations that prohibit parking of the bus in your premise.

3. Amenities in the bus

Buses are built for a specific set of travellers and this is reflected in their design. A school bus would necessarily have doors with secure lock systems, no cargo bays or raised floor.

School buses are required to shuttle passengers carrying a minimum amount of baggage. This bus would surely need racks to store the bags and other accessories.  A school bus does not need any storage space outside the main cabin.

Ensure that you purchase a school bus that already has all the amenities at the time of purchase. Installation at a later date becomes an expensive affair and is inconvenient.

4. Type of Engine

There have never been more options than today as far as the type of engine is concerned. The types of engines available include petrol, diesel, hybrids, and buses powered by an electric battery. 

The next important point to keep in mind is the heavy use that the bus will see in the future years. This factor has to be kept in mind to match the operational costs and the fuel costs of the bus.

5. Engine Capacity

Choose a bus with an engine that is suited for the terrain on which the bus will be driven. Buses are built to meet standard needs. However, you may sometimes need a powerful engine for the bus.

Larger engine lasts for a longer time than a smaller one because it does not have to work as hard. The smaller one will have to work in its full capacity.

Read Also: 10 Important Benefits of Propane Based School Buses

6. Types of School Buses

There are different bus models to choose from. However, some of them are more popular with the bus drivers because of driving comfort and ease of repair from the mechanics’ point of view.

However the most popular school bus models are

  • Conventional school buses
  • Transit style bus
  • Rear Engine Buses

7. Budget

It is important to understand that it is not always wise to save some money, especially if it means sacrificing some of the criteria mentioned above.

However, budgets are likely to be the largest part of the decision when purchasing a large and costly vehicle like a bus. Firstly, work out the maximum price or an upper limit.

It is also a good idea to buy used buses. Such a purchase may provide better value for your money.

Or you can buy a new bus if your budget is reasonably big and your needs are long term. Otherwise used buses are the right option.

8. Safety

The safety aspects of a school bus are of utmost importance. All safety features must be present on the bus before you purchase the vehicle.

Inspect to see if the airbags are working and the anti-lock brakes are in place.

9. Customization

You can add any number of customized features including safety seats, seat belts, handrails, wheelchair lifts, seat restraints, etc. You can even tailor the electrical and HVAC systems according to specific requirements and the regional climate.

 Modern school buses have a number of additional features that facilitate communications, TV systems, Internet Wi-Fi, GPS trackers, transmitters and receivers, according to requirements.

10. Buy in terms of your needs

1.Buying a new bus

Manufacturers and licensed resellers often show you the latest models when you start to shop. You can choose the dealer whose bus seems to have all the requirements that you have identified.

You can search for local bus dealers and see if you can recognize their models. You can also speak to bus owners, if you know any, and ask for their experiences as far as reliability and operational economy of the vehicle is concerned. 

Read Also: What Are The Advantages Of A School Bus Tracking Software?

2. Buying a used bus

Used buses can be found at auctions and also with dealers that sell new vehicles. Sometimes it is possible to land buses in decent condition at great bargain prices.

It may be a safer option to buy the bus from a licensed reseller than from an auction. They may allow you to test-drive before you make the payment and therefore it is safer.

You can also inspect the bus to ensure that there are no major issues that are hidden out of sight. Any initial maintenance that needs to be done can be incorporated into the cost of the bus after due discussions with the reseller.

Winter School Bus Driving Guidelines And Tips

Winter is the most inappropriate time for riding any sort of vehicle rather so a school bus.

For a school bus driver the safety of the students is the most important and riskiest job there is, and to carry it out on a winter surface is harder than normal.

School bus drivers should always be prepared for changing weather conditions, it’s always important to bring along additional weather gear to withstand the winter.

Read Also: School Bus Driver Safety – How Technology Can Play a Role

A few of the winter weather gear might include:

  • Thermals
  • Winter Parka
  • Gloves
  • Extra Socks
  • Winter Boots
  • Rain Slicker
  • Hat or Knit Cap
  • Rags
  • Flashlight
  • Ice Scraper

Anyone who has driven in snow knows that winter driving is difficult especially for heavy vehicle drivers. Driving a school bus in snow requires a special set of skills to ensure the safety of the students.

Here are few tips for school bus drivers on how to safely drive the bus on winter conditions

1.Plan Early

Don’t wait until winter hits you, take counter measures before hand. Weather conditions can go from mild to harsh in an instant so it’s better to be ready for the winter which is eventually coming. Take up safety measures which include

  • Establishing earlier start times and take alternate routes that is much safer from the rash weather
  • Ensure a stable communication channel with the faculty
  • Conduct a manual check-up for the school buses prior to the winter season ensuring that the vehicle is in tact

2. Train the Drivers

Winter road conditions are not at all similar to normal driving conditions, covered by thick snow the roads will be slick and slippery, the driving rules installed by the transportation ministry would not be enough in keeping the school bus safe.

Therefore school bus drivers should go through a specialized winter training course.

  • The driver training should consist of
  • Importance of increasing the following distance from a vehicle
  • The relevance of reducing the speed
  • Importance of slow acceleration, steering, and braking
  • Allowing longer stopping distance

Read Also: Futuristic School Bus Transportation

3. Winterize the School Buses

The school buses should be equipped to counter the winter season prior to the start of the season.

The school bus drivers should understand the limitations of their vehicle and must keep regular maintenance of the school bus.

Here are a few tips school bus drivers should keep in mind while winter proofing the school bus

  • All the batteries should be tested prior to the season
  • Switch to winter tires or assure that all tires have sufficient tread
  • Install antifreeze brake line
  • Introduce new windshield and wipers for the snowy weather
  • Cross check every switches and light to make sure they are functional
  • Introduce anti-fog product on interior glass and to reduce the adhesion of snow and ice use rain repellent material on the outside glasses
  • To provide emergency traction, the school buses at all time during the winter season should contain an oil absorbent or kitty litter

You don’t know what to expect during the harsh weather, sometimes even skilled driving would not be enough. Following are some additional Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind

  • Be Cautious

Be extra cautious around bus stops, school zones and at bus loading and unloading areas where there exist a huge chance of high snow banks.

  • Slow Down, Don’t hurry

In harsh winter conditions don’t hurry, at these times the safety of the students must come above everything including staying on schedule.

  • Anticipate the road conditions

During winter the roads will be poor and dangerous so it’s better to keep a healthy distance between the vehicles and other objects in front of you, so that you could react to any unwanted instances en-route.

  • Don’t take chances, Drive Safely

In intersections always, be wary of other motorist and if you feel any sort of concern to move forward don’t, sometimes it’s better to take no road at all.

  • Be winter proof

Wear winter hats, boots, and clothing that will keep you warm. Rather than the harsh weather, there should not stand any discomfort for you while driving.

  • Use of Headlights

Countless accidents have occurred because drivers were surprised by a vehicle which they did not see until it was too late.

During inclement weather conditions like rain, sleet, snow, and hail you should turn on your headlights so others can see you.

In fact, any sort of weather condition which causes vision impairment is enough to turn your headlights on while driving.

  • Clear your bus off from Ice

Before you start the vehicle, be sure to wipe out every chunk of snow and ice from the windows, mirrors, headlights and make sure that the vehicle is visible to others.

Under normal driving conditions dealing with traffic, stopping, turning, maintaining the legal speed limit can all be controlled by using good driving techniques.

But when you come up against roads covered with snow and ice the entire dynamic changes.

Read Also: Electric Buses – Where Do We Stand Now

In extreme winter circumstances despite the incredible dangers presented by the slick surface, drivers must exercise great caution and practice the above mention tips to ensure the safety of the vehicle and students.

Road Safety Rules In The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a country where cyclists form a quarter of its traffic along with cars, buses, trams, trucks and trains.

With an enormous number of cyclists on the road, driving can be a challenge. The Netherlands Transport Ministry issues road safety rules and regulations for both motorists and cyclists.

Read Also: Driving Rules You Need To Follow In The USA

Driver’s License

  • The minimum age requirement for obtaining a Dutch driving license for cars is 17 years.
  • A moped driving license can be obtained by drivers aged 16 and above.
  • The learner has essentially to pass a compulsory theory exam and a final practical exam from the Central Office of Driving Certification (CBR).
  • Before the final practical exam, learners have to perform an intermediate practical exam in stopping, turning and parking.
  • High-speed bicycles with speed limits of 45km/h are required to have number plates. The riders should possess moped driving licenses.

Speed Limits

  • In general, the speed limits are 50 km/h on the city roads (urban areas) and 80 km/h on other rural roads.
  • The maximum speed allowed on expressways is 100 km/h and on motorways is 130 km/h
  • Traffic fines are imposed for speed violations. Speeding above the limits by 3-4 km/h is not fined on most of the roads. On roads where the speed limit is 130 km/h, there is no margin for violation. Even speed of 1 km/h above the limit is fined.
  • The speed is limited to 30 km/h within built-up areas and 40 km/h outside built-up areas on bicycle or moped tracks.
  • If excessive speeds are detected, the driver incurs on-the-spot fines.

Road Signs

  • Priority signs are those that indicate Stop, Start and End of Priority Roads, Give Way.
  • Warning signs indicate No Entry, Entry Closed to Cycles, Mopeds and Trucks; those that ban entry of vehicles exceeding specified lengths.
  • Instruction signs are those that ask to Drive Ahead, Keep Right, Turn Right, etc.
  • Warning signs indicate the presence of Hills, Curves, School Crossings, Tram Crossings, Road Closures, etc.

Read Also: Road Safety Rules In Australia

Traffic Lights

  • Traffic lights follow the sequence of red, amber, green. An illuminated arrow alongside traffic lights indicates that vehicles can turn only in the direction of the arrow.
  • Signals with an illuminated picture of a bicycle pertain to bicycle/moped riders.
  • Signs stating ‘Right turn clear for bicycles and mopeds’ implies the amber and red lights do not apply to them and they can turn right.
  • Traffic lights for buses and trams follow the white, amber, red sequence where the flashing white light indicates that they can proceed.
  • At pedestrian crossings, a green light shows that they can cross; flashing green light warns that the light might turn to red soon and red light prevents pedestrians from crossing.

Safety Rules

  • Drivers and all passengers in the car should wear seat-belts.
  • Children below the age of 5 and below the height of 1.35m should be seated on safety seats at the rear of the car.
  • Helmets are to be worn by motorcyclists.
  • Mobile phones can be used only with a hands-free device. Holding a mobile phone while driving is also considered an offence.

Road Rules

  • The Dutch drive their vehicles keeping to the right side of the road. They are expected to keep to the extreme right of the road.
  • Overtaking of vehicles is permitted from the left. Cyclists have to overtake other cyclists from the left. Trams may be overtaken from the right. Vehicles entering a roundabout may overtake from the right.
  • Drinking and driving is illegal. Drivers who have been in possession of a license for five years or longer are permitted an alcohol level of a maximum of 50 mg/100 ml of blood. If one has held a license for less than five years the tolerance level is 20 mg/100 ml. The alcohol level allowed for scooter and moped drivers under the age of 24 is 20 mg/100 ml.
  • The DUI law makes operation of a vehicle with even a small amount of (detectable) specific drugs in one’s system illegal. This offence could lead to imprisonment and suspension of licenses for up to five years.
  • Traffic, including cyclists, approaching from the right has to be given priority unless signs indicate otherwise.
  • Trams are to be given priority over all other traffic except in areas where sign-posts mention otherwise.
  • Drivers reversing, performing U-turns, exiting and entering roads must give way to other vehicles at all times.
  • Drivers are not permitted to execute U-turns or reverse on motorways and highways.
  • Trailers and heavy vehicles are restricted to using the two right innermost lanes.
  • Dipped headlights have to be used after dark and in poor visibility conditions.
  • In cities and built-up areas, headlights can be flashed if necessary; horns can be used only in dangerous situations.
  • Pedestrians should walk on the pedestrian tracks. Pedestrians should familiarize themselves with the network of bicycle paths as most often they resemble foot-paths.
  • Cyclists are allowed to ride two abreast. 

Read Also: 30 Essential Road Safety Rules in India

Parking

  • P-Zones are parking areas, most of which are metered. Areas with parking meters allow vehicles to be parked for 1-2 hours on paying the charges.
  • Blue-zone parking in urban areas permits parking on display of time-stamped traffic disc. The discs can be obtained from motor clubs and police stations.
  • Parking garages allow parking on payment of charges.
  • Park and Ride spaces are organized parking spaces outside the city limits. Drivers park in these spaces and use public transport to their destinations.
  • Alongside ‘no parking’ signs, rectangular signs indicate times when parking is restricted in such areas.
  • Parking is prohibited within five meters from intersections, outside built-up areas, on broken yellow lines and in places obstructing exits and entrances.
  • Cycles and mopeds are to be parked on pavements, footpaths and areas specifically assigned for parking.
  • Disabled drivers and invalid carriages are exempted from parking restrictions.
  • Despite traffic rules, traffic jams are a major occurrence during peak times. The narrow inner roads get congested and traffic spills over on to main highways.
  • Being wary of cycle riders, while driving, slows the drivers. The government maximizes its efforts to see that the roads are made safer and the drivers are therefore happier.

Road Safety Rules In Australia – All You Need To Know

Australian driving rules ensure that drivers of all ages drive in the safest possible way. The stringent requirements from obtaining a driving license, detailed traffic signs, driving rules and safety regulations are instituted to assure safer driving habits amongst its drivers.

Australians drive keeping to the left of the road. This is different from some other countries. An overview of the traffic rules and regulations are detailed as follows.

Read Also: Driving Rules You Need To Follow In The USA

Obtaining a Driving License

  • The minimum age requirement to obtain a driving license in Australia is 16 years. After passing the test one is qualified for a Learner’s Permit on which he is permitted to drive for two years.
  • On completion of driving for a minimum of 12 months on a Learner’s Permit, he is eligible to apply for Provisional License – P1.  
  • A driver qualifies for the Provisional License – P2 when he is 18 years and above and has held P1 license for a minimum period of 1 year.
  • Anyone who is 20 years or older is eligible for the Full Driving License provided he has completed 2 years of driving on his P2 License.
School-Transport-Software--Ensure-enhanced-student-safety

Speed Limits

  • The maximum speed limit outside built-up areas is 100 km/h and within built-up areas is 50 km/h.
  • Speed limits of 25 km/h are imposed at school crossings and koala crossings. This speed limit is applicable when passing school buses that have stopped for picking or dropping students or passing emergency vehicles with their lights flashing. In some residential areas, speed limits have been fixed at 40 km/h.
  • In shared zones where both pedestrians and vehicles are permitted, the speed has to be kept to a minimum of 10 km/h.
  • Racing and over-speeding are prohibited on the roads. The police confiscate number plates which is equivalent to impounding of the vehicle.

Road Signs

  • Regulatory – Signs that must be obeyed: Stop; Give way, Speed Limit, No Right/ Left turn.
  • Warning – Signs that warn of impending hazards or unusual feature on the road: Speed advice at curves and bends, etc.
  • Direction – Signs that provide information to the driver: distances to places, directions to towns and roads, emergency services, lay-bys, telephones, etc.
  • Temporary – Signs that caution the driver about work on the road, closed lanes or detours.

Traffic Lanes

  • A continuous white lane line should not be crossed unless to overtake a cyclist or to avoid any other obstruction.
  • Bus lanes are denoted by signs. This is for buses, bicycles, taxis and emergency vehicles during the times mentioned on the signs. •    ‘Bus Only’ lanes are painted with a red box with ‘Bus Only’ written in white.  The lanes are marked by a continuous red line alongside the white lane marking.
  • Bicycle lanes are colored green and are designated for the exclusive use of bicycle riders.
  • Transit Lanes are indicated by signs T2 and T3. T2 can be used by any vehicle with two or more passengers including the driver and T3 can be used by vehicles with three or more passengers including the driver. 

Traffic Lights

  • Traffic lights follow the sequence of red, yellow, green.
  • Most of the traffic lights have arrow lights at the intersections. At a red arrow light, you are not allowed to turn in the direction of the arrow. Yellow arrow cautions the driver about the turn of lights preparing him to stop. Green arrow light permits turn in the direction of the arrow.
  • When traffic lights are not functional, the rule of Giving Way to the Right or at a T-intersection has to be obeyed wherever applicable.
  • Signs stating ‘Turn left when the lights are red’ allows the driver to turn left before the lights turn to green after giving way to pedestrians and other vehicles.
  • Flashing yellow light signals the driver to proceed with caution.
  • White ‘T’ light is an indication to a tram driver and ‘B’ light is an indication to the bus driver that they may continue to drive or proceed. 
  • Red/Green bicycle lights with symbols indicate to cyclists whether to stop, proceed or wait.
  • U-turns cannot be made at all intersections unless there is a sign permitting U-turn.
  • Bicycle storage area or bike box is an area on the road with bicycle symbols painted on it. This area will be painted green. Vehicles are not allowed to enter the storage area when the lights are red.

Safety Rules

  • Seat belts are to be worn by the driver and all passengers while the vehicle is in motion.
  • Children between the ages of 6 months to 7 years are to be seated on rear passenger seats. An infant restraint or a child safety seat with harness has to be used.
  • A child of any age with a medical condition or disability is allowed to sit on the front seat. They should be properly restrained and the driver should carry a medical certificate.
  • Cyclists, moped and motor scooter drivers are required to wear a helmet and appropriate riding gear.
  • Usage of mobile phones while driving is not allowed.

Lights

  • Headlights, rear lights and number plate lights are to be turned on when driving in the dark or when visibility is poor
  • Driving with only park lights is considered to be an offence.
  • Headlights can be momentarily flashed on high beam to indicate overtaking.
  • Lights should be dipped within 200 m of an oncoming vehicle and while nearing the rear of a vehicle.
  • Hazard lights can be used by drivers in bad weather and to warn other drivers of obstructions.

Driving Rules

  • It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other prescription medicines which impair driving skills. The blood alcohol level should not be in excess of 0.05 %.
  • Australia follows a zero-tolerance policy for drivers on Provisional Licenses. Zero tolerance is applicable to drivers of taxis, buses and heavy vehicles.
  • It is advisable to check the local weather conditions if driving long distances. Bush-fires, floods, cyclones could happen anytime.
  • Overtaking is permitted only where the centre line marking is a single broken line.
  • While overtaking a road train, allow plenty of distance as the wind rush will pull the vehicle towards it.
  • Where lanes are not marked, the driver should drive near the left side of the road.
  • Double unbroken lines can be crossed only in cases of hazards like an accident or fallen tree or when a car is parked illegally.
  • Give way signs are an integral part of Australian traffic rules. It is important to give way to pedestrians, bicycle riders, buses, trams and trains, vehicles at intersections and roundabouts. Giving way indicates slowing down or if necessary stopping to allow vehicles to proceed safely avoiding collisions.
  • Freeways or expressways allow movement of vehicles at speeds higher than on normal roads. The right lane must be freed for overtaking. A safe distance from other vehicles has to be maintained at all times. Drivers have to be alert as traffic from behind may move at very high speeds.
  • A vehicle is not permitted to make U-turns or reverse on a freeway. They are not permitted to stop or park unless in cases of emergencies. Pedestrians, cyclists, animal-drawn vehicles and animals are prohibited from using freeways.
  • Horns must be used only to warn pedestrians and other vehicles of dangers.

Parking Rules

  • Parking signs are displayed showing the time duration for which a vehicle can be parked on specific days.
  • Parking for more than 2 minutes in a No Parking Zone is not allowed. The driver has to remain in or within 3 m of the vehicle if he does stop in this zone.
  • Pay parking sign allows parking for the duration shown on the signs provided the charges are paid.
  • While parking on a hill or a curve it has to be ensured that the vehicle is visible to an oncoming vehicle from 100 m away.

Read Also: 30 Essential Road Safety Rules in India

On-the-spot fines, demerit points, suspension and disqualification of licenses act as deterrents to the violation of traffic regulations.  Adhering to the set of traffic rules makes driving easier and the roads safer.

Driving Rules You Need To Follow In The USA

Driving rules in the USA differ from state to state within the country. Each state enacts its own rules and regulations. Though most of the traffic rules are similar to that of other countries, some of the road signs and stop lights may be different. It is recommended that the driver understand the traffic rules specific to the state in which he/she is driving in.

Vehicles are driven on the right-hand side of the road in America.The following are the common road rules across the USA

Obtaining a Driving License In USA

  • The minimum age requirement to obtain a driver’s license in USA is between 14 to 17 years. Age specified as minimum requirement varies from state to state. 
  • Licenses are issued to the driver from the State in which they live.
  • Driving licenses are classified into many types – Unrestricted for normal drivers, Hardship licenses for minors between 14-15 who are forced to drive to school or work due to hardships at home, Provisional for minors between 14-17 years of age, Chauffeur licenses, Motorcycle licenses, and Handicap Permits.
  • Drivers under 18 have to attend an education program and are required to complete a specific number of lessons behind the wheel.
  • Minimum age to obtain a commercial driver’s license is 21 and, for driving school buses,it is 25.

Speed limits in USA

The speed limits are set by the different states.  They vary depending on the type of road, vehicle and time of the day.

Most of the states have a speed limit of 55 to 75 miles per hour on major roads and 55 to 65miles per hour on secondary road networks. Exceeding speed limits result in heavy fines and severe punishments.

Road Signs in USA

  • Stop signs, red and octagonal in shape, requires the driver to stop completely before proceeding forward or crossing the intersection ahead.
  • Yield signs, red or yellow and triangular in shape, indicate that the driver has to wait till the oncoming traffic is cleared before progressing.
  • Black X in a yellow circle with RR written in it indicates a level crossing with or without barriers. ‘Only’ or ‘Exit Only’ signs above lanes indicates that those lanes do not continue on the freeway and it is compulsory for the driver to take the exit.

Traffic Lines

  • Dashed or broken white lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
  • Yellow lines on the road separate traffic lanes moving in opposite directions. 
  • Lanes separated by solid double yellow lines prohibits crossing in both directions.
  • Broken yellow lines allow for passing cautiously, the driver being fully aware of the oncoming traffic.
  • White lines on the edge of the road guide motorists in poor visibility.

Traffic Lanes

  • On double-lane roads, the right lane is used by slow moving traffic and the left lane is used for passing.
  • Carpool lanes are offered on some ring or peripheral roads. Carpool and heavy vehicle lanes are mostly the far left side lanes.

Traffic Lights

  • Traffic stop lights run in the red-yellow-green sequence.
  • A green filter light, in addition to the main signal, indicates that one can drive in the direction shown by the arrow irrespective of other signs.
  • In some suburban areas, red flashing lights indicate approaching traffic lights.
  • ‘Delayed green’ signs at stop lights show that the green light opposite will change first.
  • Flashing red light means that the motorist has to stop and a flashing yellow means that he may progress forward without stopping if the road is clear.
  • Right turns at red lights are allowed legally unless otherwise specified. At some busy junctions,there are sign boards saying ‘No turn on red’. Either way, caution has to be taken while turning.
  • Major intersections, in some cities, have green-arrow signals indicating left turns.

Headlights

  • Headlights are to be used when visibility is reduced to less than 500ft., mostly after sunset and in bad weather.
  • Full beams have to be dipped for oncoming traffic within a 500ft. range and also when following a car within a 300ft. range.
  • Driving with park lights on is not allowed.
  • Driving with headlights on during daytime is legal.
  • Hazard lights can be used to warn other drivers of an accident, obstruction or traffic jam on freeways. In some states it is illegal to use hazard lights when the vehicle is in motion.
  • Use of hazard lights to signal other vehicles of approaching police control, radar, etc., is illegal.

Road Safety Rules in USA

  • All states require drivers to wear seat belts while driving. Children under specified ages have to be seated in a special car safety seat. Older children should be buckled securely in their seats. Some states require all passengers in the vehicle to use individual seat belts.
  • Usage of mobile phones for talking and texting is illegal in all states. Hands-free devices may be used. Use of hand-held navigation units is also illegal.

Driving rules in USA

  • Overtaking in the USA is known as ‘passing’. Overtaking can be done only in legal passing zones which are indicated by a broken yellow centerline or a solid line.
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in all states of America. This law is applicable to farm machinery and horse-drawn carriages as well. This rule if violated incurs fines, penalty points and imprisonment.
  • At traffic circles or roundabouts, vehicles coming from the left have priority over the vehicle entering the roundabout.  Vehicles entering the roundabout face a Yield sign which implies caution.
  • Signals or indicators are to be used always to turn even if there is no vehicle in the near vicinity. When indicators fail arm signals can be used.
  • Pedestrians have the legal right of way. Once they step onto the crossing where there are no traffic lights, cars have to stop completely allowing them to cross.  
  • Cyclists and motorcycle riders use the main road in states where separate bike lanes are not provided
  • Children alighting or boarding school buses are given priority over all other traffic. Motorists are supposed to stop 20-25 feet behind the school bus. Yellow flashing lights on school buses indicate that they are about to stop. When they stop red flashing lights come on.School buses with flashing red lights cannot be passed until the lights stop flashing and the stop arms are down. Violation of this law is taken very seriously and motorists can be fined up to fined up to $1,000, imprisoned, subject to do community service, and receive up to five penalty points on their driving license
  • Hitchhiking and picking up hitchhikers is not permitted in most of the states.  Vehicle insurance becomes invalid in such cases.
  • Use of car horns should be minimal and used only in cases of impending danger.

Parking Rules in USA

  • Parking is prohibited on the sidewalk, at intersections, in front of drive-ways, within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, in a bus-stop, near a curb painted yellow or red, in tunnels or on bridges.
  • Parking on the street warrants reading all the signs near the parking spot. Parking without a permit or zone sticker in designated parking spaces for residential areas attracts a fine.
  • Meter violations – Insufficient cash in the meter or expiry of meter timing before the vehicle is moved will receive a ticket. Permissible timings can range from 10 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Parking on private property, on snow emergency routes, under ‘No Parking’ signs and in handicap parking zones without permits, results in the vehicle being towed by the police.Towing rules and regulations vary from state to state.

These are general guidelines drivers should be aware of prior to driving in the USA. It is the duty of every driver to observe the laws of the land and to pay all fines incurred. Non-compliance will result in non-renewal of the vehicle registration.

15 Best Bus Parking Games 2020

Diverse bus parking games are now available in Google and Apple stores, which you can download easily and play.

“Parking the bus” means playing defensively. When it comes to bus parking games, you have to complete your missions as fast as possible to beat other players and win.

While car parking is quite easy, the case is not the same with parking a big bus, without causing any accidents and without disturbing other vehicles or people around.

Not everyone will be experienced in driving and parking large coach and luxury buses. These bus parking games will make you an expert driver.

1. Off-road Bus Simulator 2019 

Most addictive bus simulator game ever. 

Play this bus driving game to be the bus driver and drive the bus coach on uphill mountains. 

Your mission is to pick up the passengers and help them to reach the destination safely without hitting traffic vehicles. Enjoy the mountain climb with your minibus and drive safely to get tips from tourists in this uphill bus driving game. 

Playing this game helps you to become a perfect and skilled off road bus driver. Have a lot of fun playing this bus driving game.

Features

  • Various modes of off-road bus driving simulator
  • Efficient control of buses
  • Different types of music to enjoy the long bus driving
  • Real off-road driving experience

2) Modern Bus Parking Adventure

Enjoy the long vehicle driving thrill!

Modern Bus Parking Adventure game is packed with a variety of advanced driving and parking missions. This game provides a long driving experience on various city locations and hard parking experience.

 If you wish to learn about long vehicle driving and advance parking techniques, then this game is the finest option for you. This game is based on a unique idea as compared to other bus racing games and cargo driving games.

Features

  • HD vivid graphics with smooth steering control
  • Highly optimized bus driving game for low storage devices
  • Free driving game (no internet connection and Wi-Fi required)
  • In-app purchases are added.
  • Advance bus interior provide a real bus driving experience

3) Coach Bus Simulator 2019

bus parking games

One of the best 3D bus simulator games. 

This game lets you enjoy real bus drive on mountain coach to pick and drop passengers safely to their destinations. This 3D game is sure to satisfy all your 3D bus driving simulator needs. The game gets more exciting when you navigate on the hill roads.  

Drive your coach bus through impossible mountain tracks, pick up passengers and drive them safely to their destinations. You can get acquainted with the changing weather conditions, scenic environment and also amazing vehicles around you. Coach Bus Simulator 2019 game has a smooth gameplay which will make you feel like a brilliant bus driver

Features

  • Real nature fell with realistic mountain driving
  • Easy and smooth steering controls
  • Adventurous and exciting levels
  • Excellent HD Graphics and backgrounds

4) Modern Bus Parking 2019

bus parking games

Modern Bus Parking 2019 entertains the players in a very effective way. 

 This game includes multi-level parking to help you become a multi-talented bus driver. This game helps you to learn the real art of bus parking by solving bus parking issues by following the commands.  

Practice bus parking skills by driving the tourist bus and practically enjoy all the features of coach driver simulator. You will get all sorts of instructions to be followed in this multi-story parking game.

 Play this game and mold yourself to be a legendary bus parking master of bus plaza parking in a short period.

Features

  • Multi-story bus parking
  • Open-ended customization
  • Genuine guidelines for player
  • Issueless and bufferless game flow

5) Advance Bus Parking Simulator

bus parking games

Do you wish to enjoy the experience of parking buses in multi-level parking lots? Then this game is apt for you.

Advance Bus Parking Simulator game lets you face challenges to park your bus on the correct destination. All you need is to focus and control your bus on curvy roads safely. 

Play and trounce all the stunning levels of Advance Bus Parking Simulator and win exciting benefit points. Get the chance to buy a New Luxury bus and ride through the city!

Features:

  • Smart bus parking system
  • Highway City Bus Parking Adventure Levels
  • 3D Auto Driver cruise control
  • S City Bus Parking 3D Environment

6) Next bus driving 3d Bus parking

bus parking games

The most challenging game ever!

Next bus driving 3d Bus parking game is a thrilling and adventurous bus driving and bus parking game. This bus simulator game provides you a natural sense of driving.  Play Next bus driving 3d Bus parking with lots of challenges.

This amazing game expert you in driving and parking the bus. You have to face many challenges to increase your driving skills.

Features

  • Exciting Challenging levels
  • Free parking Simulation
  • Multiple levels & Modes
  • Realistic Ultra Graphics
  • Smooth and Realistic control
  • 3D Gameplay

7) School Bus Coach Driver 2019

An entertaining adventure is here for you… Play School Bus Coach Driver 2019.

The goal of this game to help kids reach their schools safely.

In this student transportation game, you need to control and drive the bus very carefully. Drive safely and get rid of all obstacles from your way and always remember to concentrate on heavy traffic while you drive the high school coach. Keep an eye on the city traffic to avoid accidents. Drive your off-road school bus safely from hills to the city high school.

Features 

  • Realistic bus Interiors
  • Both right-hand drive and left-hand drive
  • Big city and uphill off-road environments

8) Classic Bus Parking – Real Driving School 2019

This adventurous game lets you drive coaches on difficult city roads. You have to focus and drive carefully, avoid accidents and hurdles. The city roads are busy and congested due to heavy traffic around. You have to drive the bus through these city roads during peak times, so extra care should be needed.Your specific destination will be shown by pointing the arrow sign in this bus racing game on the screen.

Drive your bus as much as you can so that you can earn bonus points and also enjoy driving through city tricky tracks. 

 Get a chance to show your off-road bus simulator skills by playing Classic Bus Parking – Real Driving School 2019.

Features 

  • Exciting Challenging levels
  • Excellent HD Graphics and backgrounds
  • Smooth and Realistic control

 

9) Bus Parking 2019bus parking games

Play Bus Parking 2019- A lot of fun awaits you!!!

Bus Parking 2019 enables you to experience gorgeous graphics of magnificent urban surroundings.

The driver should drive the bus carefully to reach the ultimate goal and win extra credits. This game is designed with excellent graphics, crazy challenging levels, etc. It is optimized to run smoothly on all devices. 

Features

  • Smooth parking simulation
  • Different levels and modes of parking
  • Bus park 3D environment

10) City Bus Parking: Real Driving Experience 2019 3D

The most awaited game of 2019. Drive your bus to reach your destinations where many passengers are waiting for you.  This simulator game is an awesome game of bus parking and transporter. Play and be an experienced bus driver by driving heavy American bus with realistic driving experience. This game has amazing realistic graphics with excellent game controls and real bus driving Experience. 

This game includes many types of buses.  City Bus Parking: Real Driving Experience 2019 3D is the best simulator ever on play store.

Features

  • Realistic driving experience
  • Awesome fantasy 3D environment
  • Multi-level Bus transport game
  • Featuring Realistic City Experience

11) Heavy Bus Parking Simulator

Experience adventurous handling of double-decker buses and the best school bus. This game is simple and extremely addictive to play.

In Heavy Bus Parking Simulator you have to drive buses through city tracks and highway roads to take local passengers. Overtake city traffic and vehicles nearby and become the fastest city bus driver, remember to avoid crashes and blood spills. Drive carefully using modern accelerator controls in this adventurous bus driving game.

This game is sure to touch the heights of racing madness and to perform racing stunts. It is packed with lots of challenges, scenic surroundings, and exciting levels to unlock.

Accelerate, speed up, drift and brake as fast as you can to Win Your Race! All you need is to play, win and earn coins to buy luxury buses and to build your fast track bus platoon. It requires millions of dollars, so kick start your bus racing career to reach the top. 

Features

  • Realistic Bus crash, destruction and damage
  • Real Bus Physics with smooth driving controls
  • Amazing multilevel bus parking ventures
  • Career Mode as Single Player & Multiplayer Mode.

12) Real Army Bus Simulator 2019: Transporter Games

Get excited to play an adventurous off-road Army bus coach. The mission of this game is to transport Indian army commando modern buses to US army military training school base camp. 

Perform best off road driving on mountain hill climb areas. Drive US army coach bus on slippery and dangerous areas of off road. You can improve your bus driving skills by following the instructions and reach the destination safely on time. 

Features

  • Animated characters Military Officers
  • Multiple camera views
  • Transport Army commandos
  • Transmission Control (Auto – Manual)

13) Flying Bus Driving simulator 2019

Bored with usual bus driving games? Through the city traffic, old fashioned buses, picking and dropping passengers, same routine, etc.

Say goodbye to these usual games. Play Flying Bus Driving simulator 2019 to get to places quicker, faster and even cheaper at times. Set your bus mode to flying mode, just like in all flying games and travel the distance faster than you can think of.

Leave all the traffic behind and fly up in the sky through skyscrapers and reach your destination safely. In this game, you are responsible to board passengers and school students safely. Don’t get over-excited and be more responsible in school bus driving simulator game 2019.

Features:

  • Three different exciting modes (Free mode, school mode and passenger mode)
  • best driving and flying controls
  • pick dangerous checkpoints in city buildings

14) Impossible Bus Simulator Tracks Driving

Are you a professional and well-experienced driver? If so, this game is apt for you.

Impossible Bus Simulator Tracks Driving game is a very difficult and dangerous one, as it is designed in the air. You can win this game only if you are able to perform insane driving. The paths are impossible to drive. So you need to be focused and alert while driving through tricky roads and curvy paths or else your luxury bus will be crashed.

Features

  • Extreme bus stunts and realistic driving simulation
  • Amazing tracks dangerous sharp turns with jumps and obstacles
  • Realistic physics for real driving experience on impossible tracks.
  • Mid-air stunts and sky high driving tracks 

15) City Toon Bus Driving Game 2019

bus parking games

Get ready to play an innovative smashy driving game ever.

In this game, your mission is to pick up and drop off passengers from bigger city parking areas. Buckle up seat belts, start your engine and be ready for passenger transportation on the city routes. You have to get on the board and take control of the city coach bus as a real city bus driver in this coach driving game 2019.

Features

  • Realistic and physics-based big bus simulation
  • Variety of luxury buses and coaches
  • Easy bus game play with user-friendly GUI
  • Stunning city view with high-quality 3D graphics of smashy toon bus games

All these games are sure to give the real experience of driving. Play these best parking games and be the master of off road bus parking games.