Ministry Vehicle Passenger Risk Factors:

In reviewing your passenger risk factors we recommend these should be reviewed:

  1. The child car seat issue, an overlook issue by most until a accident happens:  Please note the follow web site for suggestions and information http://www.nsc.org/library/facts/scbusinf.htm  As you'll see, the NHTSA recommends that children under 50 pounds ride in an approved car seat, even on vehicles such as a school bus.  State regulations will vary by state so you'll want to check with your state's DOT/DMV regarding car seat requirements for your state.  Some states make distinctions between vehicles over/under 10,000 pounds, others do not.  In most states, 12-15 passenger vans must meet the same requirements as passenger cars in those states as far as child safety seats. 
  2. We believe there should be at least a child to adult ratio of 2 adults for 20 children and an added adult for each 10 or portion of 10 above the first 20 to meet the best adult/child ratio requirements. This will also enable the driver to concentrate on driving instead of attempting to be concerned about children activities and their safety issues. This should be understood for any size vehicle whether auto or bus.
  3. The driver should not start a trip until all are seated properly.
  4. The vehicle isles should not be blocked.
  5. Windows should not be blocked to driver vision and driving needs.
  6. Body parts of children should remain in the vehicle for matters of safety.
  7. A consideration should be given for longer trips that persons that know safety and CPR are on the vehicle to assist should an emergency happen.
  8. Smaller children should be near an older person to assist them if necessary during the trip.
  9. All seats should be inspected to be sure they are securely attached to the vehicle and any possible provided seat belts work properly.
  10. Smaller children should be seated more to the rear of the vehicle instead of the front for safety reasons. For smaller passengers on larger older buses with metal seat back frames, consider ducktaping some padding over the metal seat framing to protect a possible head impact with it. 
  11. Inspect all doors for proper operation including any emergency doors or windows if provided.
  12. For longer trips it may be helpful for the adults to provide something for the children to watch or do during the trip so they are able to have an enjoyable trip to be kept from boredum and other related issues.
  13. Planned rest stops for longer trips can also added to the enjoyment of a longer trip and assist with safety issues from boredum and restlessness.
  14. A safe arrival is your best choice then a rushed trip with possible careless mistakes if your starting time is off.
  15. Passenger safety items on the vehicle should include car sickness bags and first aid kit.
  16. The vehicle trip inspection should be completed as noted with this section on our web site.
  17. A trip, medical, and parental release form as noted with this section should be completed for longer trips. 
  18. A review of weather conditions for the trip route should be noted so as to provide the best precautions for less risk and a safe trip. 
  19. Finally a working cell phone should be included should any emergancy arise or other need for communication.