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CDL · Loading and Unloading

If a student drops an object near the bus while loading or unloading, what should they be taught to do?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

Never go back for it without the driver's permission and signal, because bending to pick up an item can put the child in the danger zone where the driver cannot see them

  1. A Ask another student to get it
  2. B Pick it up immediately wherever it fell
  3. C Never go back for it without the driver's permission and signal, because bending to pick up an item can put the child in the danger zone where the driver cannot see them
  4. D Quickly reach under the bus to grab it

Why this is the answer

A dropped item is a classic danger-zone hazard. A child who bends down to retrieve a backpack, paper, or toy near the bus can disappear from the driver's view, including from the crossview mirrors, and may be in the path of the wheels. Students should be taught never to go back for a dropped object near the bus; instead they should tell the driver, who can ensure the area is safe before allowing retrieval, or get the item once the danger zone is clear. The driver must always know where every student is before moving and should account for this common situation when loading and unloading.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 10.1.3 Most Dangerous Zones

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About this topic: Loading and Unloading

Loading and unloading is where most student fatalities occur. These questions cover the stop procedure, use of warning lights and the stop arm, counting students, and what to do if a student drops something near the bus. This is one of 20 School Bus questions on loading and unloading, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our CDL exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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