What types of mirrors does a school bus typically have, and what does each show?

School buses have an extensive mirror system because of the special need to see small students near the bus. Flat side mirrors (also called West Coast or plane mirrors) show side and rear traffic at true distance. Convex side mirrors (or 'spot' mirrors) show a wider angle, including blind spots immediately alongside the bus, but distort distance — objects appear smaller and farther away. Cross-view mirrors (also called crossover mirrors) are mounted at the front corners and angled to show the area immediately in front of the bus and the entry door area. The driver must check all mirrors during loading, unloading, and any maneuver that might place a student in a blind spot.