bus route optimization, Dispatch Software, asset school bus tracking system, best gps device for school bus, driver navigation, easy gps tracker for school bus
For decades, school buses were not required to have seat belts onboard, but the winds have been slowly changing in the 21st century. For years now, both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Nation Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) have officially recommended installing belts on buses for the sake of student safety. However, uptake of these recommendations has been slow.
In fact, as of writing, only eight states have any official policies mandating seat belts on buses. The vast majority of states leave it up to individual cities or districts to decide.
In fairness, the counterpoint is that school buses are already so safe, with serious accidents so rare, that many cash-strapped districts simply don't see it as a necessary expenditure. That said, the benefits of seat belts go beyond simple crash safety, and make a strong argument for upgrades.
Why Invest In School Seat Belts?
The obvious first answer is crash safety, particularly side-on crashes. The "compartmentalization" created by high-backed padded seats does generally protect students from front and rear collisions. But if the bus is hit from the side, there's nothing stopping students from flying off into the aisle, or slamming into the side wall.
This is even more true in situations where the bus rolls over. Rollovers are chaotic, and having students strapped in would significantly reduce their chances of serious injury.
Such accidents are uncommon, but that's cold comfort if a student is brain-damaged from an impact.
Seat belts also improve student safety in another major way: it keeps them in their seats while the bus is in motion. Fewer students moving around the interior keeps the bus orderly, and reduces distractions for the driver. Studies have suggested that seat belts truly do improve student behavior, which is good for everyone.
Finally, as more of a tertiary benefit, seat belts in buses reinforce the idea that people should always strap in, when riding in a moving vehicle. Mandating belts in cars, but not buses, sends mixed messages to students - especially younger children. Universal seat belt mandates makes the message clear, and promotes seat belt use in general.
In short, there's plenty of reason to put seat belts on buses. If your district is struggling to find the money, contact your state government and start lobbying for mandates and funding. It really could save lives.
BusBoss is here to help improve student safety and bus efficiency in your district. Contact us to learn more about our products and services.
Request a free demo to be eligible for our 2025 Kickoff Promotion!
Buy One Get One – Buy BusBoss or ROUTEpatrol Tablets and receive another product for free!
PRESIDENT
Sonia has been involved with BusBoss since the late 1990’s, and has personally overseen many projects for various customers ranging from large urban and suburban districts to smaller rural school districts from all over the country.
(484) 941-0820