Miscellaneous

Wet Weather Bus Driving Safety Tips

Model 1 | October 8, 2021

A bus navigating through a wet street amidst rainy weather.

Wet weather can make driving a bus less safe and more challenging, but the following wet weather driving tips can help. For more advice or to shop buses for sale, contact Creative Bus Sales. As the nation’s largest bus dealer, we carry a range of models to suit a range of needs.

 

BEFORE DRIVING A BUS IN WET WEATHER

First, look up the weather forecast. This will provide helpful information on the severity of the wet weather conditions to expect. Second, look up traffic alerts to get information on any traffic congestion or accidents, which increase in wet weather conditions. Third, make sure the bus is ready for wet weather conditions. Conduct a pre-trip inspection, which should include:

Topping off washer fluid as needed.

  • Checking the quality of the windshield wipers and replacing as needed.
  • Inspecting the tires and ensuring they can maintain traction on slick roads.
  • Testing the window defroster, lights, and brakes.

WHILE DRIVING A BUS IN WET WEATHER

DRIVING STRATEGIES

It’s important to alter bus driving strategies to better suit wet weather conditions:

Headlights: Use low beam headlights, which helps reduce the reflection of rain water. Make sure the headlights are engaged anytime the windshield wipers are being used.

Following distance: Leave three to nine times as much space compared to driving on a dry road. If the driver ahead of you suddenly slams on their brakes, you will have enough time to react and avoid a collision. Plus, it decreases the back spray of water from vehicles in front of you hitting the bus windshield.

Braking: Avoid sudden braking as much as possible, which can increase the chances of hydroplaning.

 

LOOK OUT FOR HAZARDS

BUS STEPS

In wet weather conditions, the bus steps can get slick. The operator and passengers should take caution when entering and exiting the bus.

PUDDLES

Puddles can build up on the road in wet weather conditions. It’s best to avoid puddles as much as possible. They can be deeper than they appear, which can cause a safety issue. If a puddle is unavoidable, use caution when driving through.

WINDS

Wet weather and winds often go hand in hand. Buses have a large amount of surface area for winds to hit, which can make them highly susceptible to getting pushed around by the wind. Operators will need to stay aware of the effects of the wind and focus on making slight corrections. Focus on the back-spray of any vehicles you are following to see the direction and intensity of the wind.

 

Want more wet weather bus driving tips? Looking to shop buses for sale? Whatever you need, the experts at Model 1 are here to help. Contact us today!