Schoolbus Driver Safety – Pre-Trip Inspection Stats and Facts

FACTS

1. Mechanical Failures: Skipping pre-trip inspections can lead to undetected brake, tire, or engine issues, resulting in accidents.
2. Visibility Issues: Dirty windows, mirrors, or malfunctioning wipers can impair the driver’s visibility, especially in adverse weather.
3. Faulty Lights: Burnt-out headlights, brake lights, or indicators reduce the bus’ visibility to other road users.
4. Emergency Equipment Deficiency: Missing or malfunctioning emergency tools like first-aid kits or fire extinguishers can exacerbate emergencies.
5. Loose Seats or Handrails: Damaged seating or handrails can injure passengers during transit.
6. Fluid Leaks: Unchecked leaks of oil, coolant, or fuel can lead to breakdowns or hazardous conditions on the road.

STATS

• A 2020 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report noted that school bus-related crashes resulted in 54 fatalities, underscoring the importance of driver attentiveness.
• A Transport Canada study found that regular pre-trip inspections reduced school bus accidents by 20%, reinforcing the importance of thorough checks. (tc.gc.ca)
• In the U.S.A., brake-related issues were a factor in 29% of school bus crash fatalities in 2019, underlining the need for brake checks during inspections.
• In Canada, approximately 15% of on-road inspections in 2021 revealed out-of-service violations in school buses, primarily due to tire and brake defects.
• According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), pre-trip inspections reduce vehicle out-of-service rates by 34% in the U.S.A.
• In Ontario, failure to complete pre-trip inspections accounted for 8% of all reported school bus violations in 2020.
• In the U.S.A., school buses with documented pre-trip inspections were 50% less likely to experience mid-route breakdowns compared to those without.