Driving Under Adverse Weather Conditions NHTSA School Bus
Driving Under Adverse Weather Conditions NHTSA School Bus Driver In-Service Safety Series
Module Purpose u To review the process for making decisions in an adverse weather situations. u To learn when to anticipate particular kinds of weather. 2
Five Conditions u u u Slippery roads Limited visibility Vehicle control problems Extreme temperatures Catastrophic conditions 3
For Each Condition u u u What causes it What you should know about it How you should handle it 4
Before You Head Out u u u Conduct a CDL pre-trip inspection Check road and weather conditions Plan for the unexpected Remember that you are not in a car Always have an emergency plan 5
On Your Route Slow Down This is the most important thing to remember when driving in adverse weather conditions. 6
Good Things to Know u What equipment do I have that might help and how do I use it? u What is the right clothing? u What is the correct way to slow down? u How do I listen to the weather report to get the most information from it? 7
Equipment u Strobe lights u Automatic chains u Chains, blocks, and tighteners u Sand release device 8
Clothing u Layers, nothing bulky u Hat with visor u Sunglasses u Gloves with leather palms u Insulated socks u Proper footwear 9
Slowing the Bus u u ABS versus non-ABS Avoid brake fade 1. Gear down 2. Use the retarder 3. Use the brakes u Check tire tread 10
Slippery Roads – Mud u. Non-paved u. Paved wet road with excessive mud 11
Slippery Roads – Rain Sprinkles Heavy Downpour 12
Slippery Roads – Ice u. Kinds u. Icing of ice conditions 13
Slippery Roads – Snow u. Types of snow u. Snowy conditions 14
Limited Visibility Slight So bad you can see nothing 15
Vehicle Control Problems Handling the school bus in windy situations 16
Extreme Temperatures u. Heat u. Cold 17
Catastrophic Conditions u. Occur without much warning u. Require a particular and immediate response from the school bus driver 18
- Slides: 18