What should you do before backing up a bus?

Before backing up a bus, it is essential to ensure safety by minimizing the risk of accidents. Posting a lookout serves as a crucial safety measure. The lookout should have a clear view of the area behind the bus and should be positioned in a way that allows them to communicate effectively with the driver. However, the directive here emphasizes that the lookout is not meant to provide detailed directions on how to back up. This is because the driver retains the ultimate responsibility for the maneuver, needing to rely on their own judgment and awareness.

Relying solely on mirrors can leave blind spots unmonitored, while continuously checking blind spots without a lookout may not provide adequate safety assurance in crowded or complex environments. Thus, having a lookout helps enhance safety without compromising the driver’s commitment to controlling the vehicle. This approach balances guidance and accountability, ensuring that the backing process is as safe as possible.