Defensive Driving and Speed Management Flashcards

A pupil driver should reduce speed below the posted limit when:

Answer: Road conditions, weather, or visibility make the posted limit unsafe

Posted speed limits are maximums under ideal conditions; drivers must always reduce speed when conditions are hazardous.

When descending a long, steep grade, a school bus driver should:

Answer: Shift to a lower gear and use engine braking supplemented by service brakes

Engine braking via lower gears prevents brake overheating (brake fade) that results from continuous brake application on long downgrades.

Under California Vehicle Code Section 22406, what is the maximum speed a school bus may travel?

Answer: 55 mph

California law limits school buses to a maximum speed of 55 mph regardless of the posted freeway speed limit.

When a red traffic light turns green, the safest action for a school bus driver is to:

Answer: Check all mirrors and scan the intersection before proceeding

A green light grants the right of way but does not guarantee the intersection is clear; checking mirrors and scanning prevents collisions from red-light runners.

How does a fully loaded school bus compare to an empty one in terms of stopping distance?

Answer: A loaded bus requires significantly longer stopping distance

A fully loaded bus has greater mass, which creates more momentum and requires a longer distance to bring the vehicle to a safe stop.

When following a vehicle that is braking erratically and unpredictably, a school bus driver should:

Answer: Increase following distance to allow more reaction time

Erratic behavior ahead demands extra following distance so the bus driver has sufficient reaction time for sudden or unexpected stops.

When driving a school bus on a wet road, the driver should:

Answer: Reduce speed and increase following distance

Wet roads reduce traction and extend stopping distances, requiring reduced speed and greater following distance to maintain safety.