WINTER DRIVING

Reduced Visibility

School Bus Operators can expect to experience all the following driving hazards that may result in reduced visibility. The most important response is to slow down. Maintain a speed that allows safe continuation in these conditions:

• Fog
• Sun
• Dust
• Rain
• Snow
• Debris
• Smoke
• Terrain
• Hail/Graupel Darkness
• Light variations Vegetation 

Additional Hints and Reminders

• Check road conditions prior to departure.
  • www.cotrip.org
• Speed should be conservative when conditions are less than perfect.
• Maintain a speed that allows you to stop quickly in the event of the unexpected.
• Know your limits and the bus’s limits. 
  • Pull off to a safe location rather than continuing in adverse or unsafe conditions.
• Test traction and braking ability in a safe location free from traffic or other hazards.
• False shoulders exist in all seasons (i.e. snow, tall grasses, and heavy rains). Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Increase the following distance.