Before reversing your bus, what is the safest action to take?

Before reversing a bus, disembarking and checking all around the vehicle is the safest action to take. This practice ensures that the driver has a clear view of the immediate surroundings and can identify any pedestrians, cyclists, or obstacles that could be in the path of the bus. Physically walking around the vehicle allows for an assessment of areas that are often blind spots, which are particularly significant in larger vehicles like buses.

While warnings such as revving the engine, using hazard lights, or sounding the horn may be useful for alerting others nearby, they do not guarantee that the area is clear for safe reversing. Relying solely on warnings can create a false sense of security, as it does not address the potential hazards that may exist behind the vehicle, such as children playing or vehicles approaching. Hence, personally checking the surroundings before moving ensures maximum safety for both the driver and those in the vicinity.