WINTER DRIVING

Be aware that snow on the road may be slippery, drifted, or hard-packed. It can also be smooth, soft, rutted, or slick-tracked. Slick track happens when traffic has packed the snow enough to cause icy conditions. Because the bus usually tracks wider than the preceding vehicles that formed the hard pack, ruts, or slick tracks, maintaining control may be difficult. Rather than allowing the bus to sway back and forth between the two narrow tracks or ruts, adjust lane positioning to ride in the untracked snow within the lane. Riding outside of the tracks or ruts will help to maintain speed and steering control.

Wet snow can cause slushy roads. Heavy slush can build up in the wheel wells of the bus and can affect steering. Remember to look ahead to recognize hazards in plenty of time to respond.

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:

Ø  Fog

Ø  Sun

Ø  Dust

Ø  Rain

Ø  Snow

Ø  Debris

Ø  Smoke

Ø  Terrain

Ø  Hail/Graupel Darkness

Ø  Light variations Vegetation Additional Hints and Reminders

Ø  Check road conditions prior to departure.

Ø  Speed should be conservative when conditions are less than perfect.

Ø  Maintain a speed that allows you to stop quickly in the event of the unexpected.

Ø  Know your limits and the bus’s limits. Pull off to a safe location rather than continuing in adverse or unsafe conditions.

Ø  Test traction and braking ability in a safe location free from traffic or other hazards.

Ø  False shoulders exist in all seasons (i.e. snow, tall grasses, and heavy rains). Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Ø  Increase following distance.