How should a school bus driver position the bus when stopping to load or unload students?

Positioning the bus at a stop: Proper positioning maximizes safety and visibility.

Practices: Pull as far to the RIGHT as safely possible (off the travel lane if a pull-off exists); stop on a section that is as LEVEL and STRAIGHT as possible with GOOD VISIBILITY in both directions (avoid stopping just over a hill crest or in a curve where approaching traffic can't see the bus in time); activate the proper warning light sequence (amber approaching, red when stopped); position so approaching traffic sees the bus and its signals well in advance; ensure the loading/unloading area is safe for students.

Avoid: Stopping where the bus is hidden (over a hill, around a curve) — approaching drivers need time to see and stop; VISIBILITY is key — both for the bus to be seen and for the driver to see students and traffic.

Consistency: Stop at designated locations.

Why: Good positioning ensures other drivers have time to stop for the red lights/stop arm and that students can load/unload and cross safely with clear sightlines; choosing safe stop locations with good visibility and proper positioning protects students during the high-risk loading/unloading process; route and stop planning should ensure stops are at safe, visible locations.