How can weather affect a school bus's stopping distance?

Weather can significantly impact a school bus's stopping distance, particularly when it comes to rain, snow, or ice. Under these conditions, the surface of the road becomes slick, which can reduce traction between the bus's tires and the pavement. This loss of traction means that the bus needs a longer distance to come to a complete stop, as the brakes may not be able to slow the vehicle down as effectively as they would on dry pavement.

For example, in heavy rain, the tires can hydroplane, leading to a further increase in stopping distance. Similarly, snow and ice create even more severe conditions where vehicles can slide uncontrollably. Drivers need to adjust their speed and increase the distance between their bus and the vehicle ahead to accommodate these hazardous conditions.

In contrast, clear skies can lead to better traction, and while certain temperatures can indeed affect road conditions, they do not serve to shorten stopping distances. Windy conditions might cause handling issues but do not inherently shorten stopping distances; in fact, they can create instability that may require increased attention from the driver to maintain control. Therefore, it is crucial for school bus drivers to be aware of how adverse weather can impact their ability to stop safely and react accordingly.