CDL · General

At a bus stop, what should the driver do before allowing passengers to board or exit?

Correct answer

Bring the bus to a complete stop, secure it (brake), and ensure it is safe before opening the door — passengers should board and exit only when the bus is fully stopped and secured

  1. A Keep the bus moving slowly
  2. B Bring the bus to a complete stop, secure it (brake), and ensure it is safe before opening the door — passengers should board and exit only when the bus is fully stopped and secured
  3. C Open the door while still rolling
  4. D Let passengers jump off anywhere

Why this is the answer

BOARDING AND EXITING SAFETY: Passengers should board and exit only when the bus is COMPLETELY STOPPED and SECURED. PROCEDURE: Bring the bus to a full stop at the proper location; apply the parking brake (secure the bus so it can't roll); ensure it is safe to open the door (check for traffic, hazards); only then open the door for boarding/exiting; watch passengers board/exit safely; ensure all are clear before closing the door and moving; WHY: Opening the door or allowing movement while the bus is still rolling is extremely dangerous — passengers can fall, be caught in the door, or be struck; a secured bus prevents rolling while passengers are boarding/exiting; SPECIAL CARE: For elderly, disabled, or passengers with mobility issues — allow time, use lifts/ramps as needed; watch for passengers near the bus; AT STOPS: Pull fully out of the traffic lane if possible; signal; stop smoothly; the driver must ensure the bus is fully stopped and secured before any boarding or exiting; rushing this process or allowing movement while passengers are at the door causes injuries; safe boarding/exiting procedure is a passenger safety fundamental tested on the endorsement.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual — Passenger, Boarding and Exiting

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