School buses are the safest means of transportation and are considered to be the most regulated vehicles on the road. The safety standards of these buses are above and beyond the normal buses on the road.
Let us go in Detail about the Number of Seats on a School Bus:-
There are school buses that differ in size. It is not possible to define the exact capacity of a school bus under all conditions.
The stereotypical seat of a school bus is 39 inches wide and is considered to have a seating capacity for three students.
The maximum seating capacity of a standard school bus is 72 Passengers.
Though there lie safety problems associated with loading these buses to maximum capacity as recognized by Student Transportation Services. Sitting on the floor or standees will not be allowed under any circumstances.
Types and Seating Capacity of Buses
We all are familiar with the ‘yellow ‘ school buses. But we often see some difference in its shape and size, some are short, some are long and some others have a flat front, etc.
Apart from all these differences, all school buses follow federal motor vehicle safety standards.
Let’s Have a Look into Different Types of School Buses:
1) A Type
These buses have a seating capacity of more than 15 passengers including the operator.
2) B Type
This type of buses have a seating capacity of more than 10 passengers but not exceeding 16 passengers, including the operator.
3) C Type
This conventional type of bus can carry more than 10 passengers including the operator.
4) Type D
Type D or the ‘transit’ style buses are designed to carry more than 10 passengers.
Also Read: What is the Average Size of the School Bus?
Let’s move on and know some of the Warning Signs that your Bus Capacity is Unsafe
- Exceeding Official Capacity
A school bus should not exceed the maximum student capacity. According to Federal regulations, three elementary students are allowed to seat onto one seat.
- Too Many Riders per Seat
Sometimes, students travel by sitting on each other’s lap. But these situations are horribly unsafe for them. A sudden brake can sometimes cause their face to get hit on the handrails in front.
- Students in the Aisles
Students are unpredictable often. If not sitting on each other, they may be standing in the aisles. Those students are at far higher risk and there is no crash protection for them. This scenario is an absolute red flag and is unacceptable at any cost.
- Miscounted Students
Drivers sometimes cannot keep an eye on each student, if their number is high. There are chances for some students to go uncounted in between.
- Loss of Disciplinary Control
Realistically as the number of students increases, it is difficult for the driver to maintain discipline among the students.
The situation becomes worse if some students tend to ride in the aisles. In these scenarios, the driver may fail to exert control over the back of the bus.
These are some of the warning signs that you should be aware of. Child safety is our major concern and keeps the kids safe and secure
Have Happy School Bus Trips!