How long does it generally take for a school bus to stop under 40 mph?

The general stopping distance for a school bus traveling under 40 mph is around 5 seconds. This duration allows the driver to respond to a situation and bring the vehicle to a safe and complete stop.

When a school bus is in motion, the stopping time is influenced by factors such as the driver's reaction time, the weight of the bus, road conditions, and the braking system effectiveness. At speeds under 40 mph, 5 seconds is a reasonable estimate that accounts for these variables while ensuring the safety of the children and other road users.

In contrast, the other options suggest either too short or excessively long stopping times, which wouldn't accurately represent the typical stopping capabilities of a bus under those conditions. Understanding this time frame helps drivers make critical decisions while navigating school zones and ensures they are prepared for the unexpected.