DRIVER'S VIEW                               STUDENT'S VIEW

For many children, going back to school means riding a bus. State and federal transportation officials say that school buses are one of the safest forms of transportation. By far, according to independent research, the safest way for children to get to and from school is on yellow school buses. It is safer than walking, riding a bike, public transportation, taxis and even being dropped off and picked up by a parent - 13 times safer according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
 

They were involved in fewer than 0.4% of the 430,000 fatal traffic crashes nationwide since 1983. Yet injuries to school-age children do occur and, with many students returning to class, bus safety remains a concern.
 

National School Bus Safety Week is Oct. 15-21, and local school districts and groups are doing their part to heighten the awareness of parents, students and drivers.
 

Tips for Riders

Here are safety tips for school bus riders:
* Arrive at bus stop at least five minutes before bus arrives.
* Stay out of street and don't play around bus stop.
* Always wait for parents on the same side of street as school bus loading zone.
* Cross at least 10 feet in front of bus so you can see the driver.
* Children should also be made aware of the bus driver's blind spot, which occurs in an area 10 feet in front of the driver. In this zone, the driver cannot see a child. This is doubly dangerous because the child is passing in front of the bus and into traffic, where he cannot be seen by other vehicles.