If you must stop suddenly to avoid a hazard, what is the correct procedure?

• A. Jump out and look for the hazard.
• B. Stop in the middle of the lane while ignoring others behind.
• C. Apply controlled braking, ensure pupils are secured, and follow with a careful post-stop check.
• D. Slam brakes and leave students unbuckled.

Answer: (C)

When you must stop suddenly to avoid a hazard, the goal is to keep control of the bus and protect the pupils. Apply controlled braking so you slow smoothly and stay in your lane, rather than slamming the brakes or panicking and steering unpredictably. This helps prevent injuries from abrupt forces and keeps the vehicle from leaving its lane or losing direction. Once the bus has stopped, quickly verify that every pupil is secured with a seat belt or restraint and remains seated. Then perform a careful post-stop check to ensure no one is injured, the interior is clear, and the area around the bus is safe before continuing. Jumping out to inspect the hazard, stopping in the middle of the lane, or slamming brakes while leaving students unbuckled creates new risks and should be avoided.