What is the main purpose of the overhead inside rearview mirror?

The main purpose of the overhead inside rearview mirror in a school bus is to monitor passenger activity inside the bus. This is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of students on board. The mirror provides the driver with a clear view of the seating area, allowing them to keep an eye on students, manage behavior, and quickly identify any issues that may arise.

By being aware of what is happening inside the bus, the driver can ensure that students are seated properly, are not engaging in distracting behaviors, and can respond promptly in case of emergencies. The features of the bus that allow for outside visibility, like side mirrors, serve different functions, such as checking for obstacles or traffic, while navigation would typically rely on various other tools or devices. Therefore, the overhead inside rearview mirror is specifically designed to enhance passenger safety and facilitate communication between the driver and students.