Not just any cargo

School bus driver Becky Black is very aware of the precious cargo she has on board for her daily bus route.

Term three is underway, and Becky does the Amberley bus run to Hurunui College, and along with other school bus drivers has voiced her concerns about road safety around buses.

“The speed of others is the biggest problem. People don’t stick to the speed limit around a parked school bus, they just fly past me… it’s concerning because children can be so unpredictable around roads.”

School bus driver Peter Black, who does the Hanmer run encounters similar issues.

“If it was their children or grandchildren on the bus, maybe they would behave differently. Children sometimes run out on to the road to greet their parents or friends. We try to prevent this, but we need people to slow down.”

Following distances by other vehicles have also been described by both Peter and Becky as problematic.

“On the open road when there is a queue following closely, the pressure is on to let them pass… there is only matter of time before someone does a risky maneuver to get around you,” said Peter.

“I have witnessed many near misses due to road rage,” said Becky.

Hurunui District Council’s Road Safety Coordinator Dean Eades said there are some simple and effective safety tips for those travelling around school buses.

“Safety is the most important issue on the minds of parents, drivers and schools. The speed limit past a school bus is legally 20km/h, and this means slowing down from your previous speed and being ready for the unexpected. The consequences of not slowing down could be catastrophic.”

Dean also emphasised the child’s responsibly as a bus passenger.

“When getting off a bus on the side of the road, children must remember to go to the back of the bus and check for traffic before crossing. This way you can see oncoming traffic and traffic can see you.”

Continuing on, Dean expresses his gratitude for the District’s school bus drivers and their conscientious efforts to keep our young ones safe.

“Buses and bus drivers should be appreciated for the great job they do everyday transporting our future generation around these country roads.”