Behind the Wheel: What It Takes to Ensure Safe School Bus Driving
When you put your child on a school bus each morning, you’re placing your trust in the hands of a professional — a trained, dedicated bus driver who takes student safety seriously. At Anderson Coach & Travel, we believe safety starts before the wheels even turn. That’s why every school bus driving professional on our team completes a detailed pre-trip inspection before every single run, whether it's a daily route or a long-distance trip.
These inspections aren't just a checklist — they are a commitment. They ensure each bus is road-ready, and every system is working as it should. With student safety on the line, there’s no room for shortcuts.
Why Pre-Trip Inspections Matter
Pre-trip inspections are a federally required part of school bus driving, and for good reason. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), school buses are among the safest vehicles on the road — and routine inspections play a big part in that safety record. In Pennsylvania, all commercial drivers are required to inspect their vehicles before service. These checks can prevent accidents caused by mechanical issues and ensure prompt responses to emergencies.
At Anderson, we go above and beyond the minimum standards. Our professional bus drivers are trained to follow a comprehensive inspection process that includes everything from brake pressure checks to emergency equipment verification. This attention to detail reflects our number one priority: safety.
Want to see how it’s done? We recently documented the full inspection process in a training video, showing the steps our drivers take each day to protect their passengers.
A Tradition of Safety and Service
Our story began in 1937 with a single school bus in western Pennsylvania. Read more about our history here. That legacy of student transportation is still a core part of what we do today. While we’ve grown to offer charter buses, group tours, and corporate transportation, we remain deeply committed to school bus driving and student safety.
Explore our full range of student transportation services here: https://www.goanderson.com/school-bus-student-transportation.
What Does a Pre-Trip Inspection Include?
Our inspections begin with the in-vehicle systems and progress to the full exterior of the bus. Here’s an overview of what our drivers do before every trip:
1. Engine Start & Brake Systems
The first step involves checking the air brake system, ensuring pressure builds correctly and the governor cuts off at the right PSI. This is followed by a leak test, low air warning, and emergency brake activation to verify that critical systems function properly.
For buses with hydraulic brakes, our drivers perform a manual brake hold test, ensuring the pedal remains firm under pressure.
2. Driver Controls & Indicators
With the bus running, the driver checks lighting systems, indicator alerts, and safety features like the stop arm and safety arm. Turn signals, headlights, and high beams are all tested for visibility.
3. Emergency Equipment
Every bus must be stocked with essential emergency items, including:
- A charged and secure fire extinguisher
- Reflective triangles
- Spare fuses
- First aid kit
- Bodily fluid cleanup kit
4. Visibility & Comfort
To ensure visibility and comfort, drivers check:
- Windshield condition
- Mirror alignment and clarity
- Functionality of the backup camera
- Wipers, washers, heaters, and horn
5. Exterior Lights
Each external light is checked in coordination with an examiner. This includes brake lights, strobe lights, clearance lights, and more.
6. Passenger Area & Accessibility
Inside the bus, our drivers:
- Walk the aisle to check seating
- Test emergency exits
- Confirm that cameras are secure and functional
For buses with ADA equipment, ramps and handrails are inspected for smooth operation and clear markings.
7. Exterior Walkaround
The final step is a full walkaround with the examiner. Our drivers assess:
- Tire pressure and tread
- Suspension and steering components
- Fluids like oil, coolant, and power steering
- Battery box, fuse box, and overall bus frame
By the end of the inspection, our drivers have evaluated every safety-critical component. It’s not just procedure — it’s peace of mind.
How to Become a School Bus Driver
Are you detail-oriented, responsible, and care about your community? You might be a great fit for a career in school bus driving. At Anderson, we provide paid training, flexible schedules, and the opportunity to be part of a team that makes a difference every day.
To learn more or apply, visit:
We’re always looking for caring, committed individuals to join our driving team.
Anderson: More Than Just School Buses
While our foundation lies in student transportation, Anderson Coach & Travel has grown into a full-service transportation company offering:
- Charter bus rentals for group trips, corporate events, and sports teams
- Group tours to destinations across the U.S. and Canada
- Custom travel planning for organizations, schools, and more
We’re a family-owned company known for clean vehicles, courteous staff, and a genuine commitment to excellence. Whether you’re looking to rent a bus or book a guided vacation, we’ve got you covered.
Get a quote or explore your travel options here: https://www.goanderson.com/charter-bus-quote
Want to learn more about our mission and values? Visit our About Us page: https://www.goanderson.com/charter-bus-company
In Conclusion
Every day, our drivers show up early, run through their inspections, and drive with care — because the safety of students and passengers depends on it. If you're interested in joining a team that values safety, service, and community, we invite you to apply today or explore our current career openings.
At Anderson Coach & Travel, we’ve been proud to be part of the journey for generations — from school trips to family vacations. Thanks for riding along.
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