What is the proper procedure for checking blind spots as a school bus driver?

The proper procedure for checking blind spots as a school bus driver involves a combination of looking over your shoulder and using mirrors. This method ensures a comprehensive assessment of the surrounding area, as mirrors alone may not provide a complete view of all potential hazards. By physically turning your head to look over your shoulder, drivers can detect vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles that may not be visible in the mirrors. This dual-checking approach is especially important for school bus drivers, who frequently operate in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as near schools.

Optionally relying solely on mirrors or checking blind spots before leaving home does not account for the dynamic environment that drivers encounter on the road. Additionally, using a passenger to check blind spots is not advisable due to the potential for miscommunication and the responsibility of the driver to maintain control and awareness while driving. Therefore, combining both visual techniques solidifies safety and ensures more reliable checks of blind spots.