AL CDL Passenger key terms

A systematic check of a bus before driving that covers lights, tires, brakes, mirrors, emergency exits, and passenger safety equipment. It is performed to confirm the vehicle is safe and to catch defects before passengers board.

The step of confirming every marked exit opens freely, is unobstructed, and has a working latch and visible sign. It also includes checking that exit windows and roof hatches operate properly before passengers are loaded.

A test of the service brake and, where equipped, the parking brake at low speed before carrying passengers. The driver confirms the bus stops straight and holds without pulling or fading.

A braking system that uses compressed air to apply the brakes on buses so equipped. Drivers must know the low-air warning, the pressure build-up check, and the leak test performed during inspection.

The linkage part that transfers air brake chamber force to the brake shoes. During inspection, pushing it by hand tests how much free travel exists; too much travel means the brakes need adjustment.

A passenger who remains standing while the bus is moving, allowed only where the vehicle is designed for it and local rules permit. Standees may not block the aisle, stepwells, or emergency exits.

The maximum number of standing passengers a bus may carry, set by the manufacturer and posted in the vehicle. Exceeding it overloads the bus and can reduce braking and handling safety.

The requirement that the walkway between seats stay free of bags, feet, and other objects so passengers and the driver can move quickly. A blocked aisle slows emergency evacuation.

The designated area where the bus stops to let passengers board or exit. The driver stops close to the curb, sets the brake, and watches for riders before opening the door.

The process of stopping safely, setting the parking brake, and letting riders leave while watching for traffic, bicycles, and pedestrians. The driver confirms no one is caught in the door before moving.

Controlling the bus doors so they open only when stopped and safe and close fully before the bus moves. The driver must verify the doorway is clear to prevent dragging or pinning a passenger.

The organized removal of passengers from a bus during a fire, crash, or other danger. The driver directs riders to the nearest usable exit, keeps order, and moves everyone to a safe distance.

A portable extinguisher carried on the bus for small fires. The driver should know its location, check its charge during inspection, and use it only to clear a path to safety.

Warning triangles or reflective devices used to mark a disabled bus so approaching traffic can see it. They are placed behind and, where needed, in front of the vehicle after a breakdown.

Flashing lights used to warn other drivers that the bus is stopped, disabled, or moving slowly. They are turned on immediately when the vehicle becomes a hazard to traffic.

The steps taken right after a collision: stop, protect the scene, check for injuries, call for help, and exchange required information. The driver must not leave the scene until released by authorities.

A check of the vehicle and driver by enforcement officers at the roadside. Drivers should present license, medical card, and required records and cooperate while defects are examined.

Rules limiting how long a commercial driver may drive and stay on duty before required rest. Passenger carriers follow specific limits, and drivers must track driving time accurately.

The record of a driver's on-duty, driving, and off-duty time. Accurate entries document compliance with hours-of-service limits and are reviewed during inspections.

Operating the bus while attention is taken away by a phone, passenger, or other task. Even a brief distraction at highway speed covers a long distance and is a leading cause of crashes.

Reading or sending messages on a handheld device while operating a commercial vehicle, which is prohibited. It takes eyes and mind off the road and is treated as a serious violation.

The gap a driver keeps behind the vehicle ahead, measured in time rather than feet. A longer gap is needed for heavy buses, poor weather, and higher speeds to allow a safe stop.

Choosing and holding a safe speed based on road, weather, traffic, and load. The driver must slow before curves, ramps, and crossings rather than braking hard with passengers aboard.

The total distance a bus travels from the moment a hazard appears until it stops, including reaction distance and braking distance. It grows with speed, weight, and slick pavement.

Techniques for steep grades and bends, such as downshifting before the descent and avoiding riding the brakes. Drivers control speed so brakes do not overheat and fade.

Using a lower gear so the engine helps slow the bus on long downgrades. It reduces reliance on the service brakes and helps prevent brake fade on mountain roads.

The loss of braking power that occurs when brakes overheat from repeated or prolonged use. Drivers avoid it by gearing down on grades and using steady, controlled braking.

Operating after dark, when visibility is reduced and glare from oncoming lights can blind a driver. Drivers should slow down, keep windshields clean, and avoid looking directly into bright lights.

Driving in rain, snow, fog, or ice, where traction and visibility are reduced. Drivers should increase following distance, reduce speed, and use lights appropriately for conditions.

A place where a road crosses train tracks. Buses carrying passengers must stop before the crossing unless the crossing is exempt, then look and listen before proceeding.

The required full stop a passenger bus makes before a railroad crossing, with the driver opening the door or window to listen. The bus moves only after confirming no train is approaching.

The maximum total weight a vehicle is designed to carry, including passengers, fuel, and equipment. Overloading a bus beyond this rating harms braking and handling.

The point where a vehicle's weight is balanced. Buses and passenger vans have a high center of gravity, so they tip more easily in sharp turns or evasive moves.

The chance a bus or van tips onto its side, which rises with speed in turns, sudden swerves, and top-heavy loads. Drivers reduce it by slowing before curves and avoiding sharp steering.

Setting side and crossover mirrors so the driver can see along both sides of the bus and the area near the doors. Proper adjustment helps spot passengers and vehicles in blind spots.

Areas around the bus the driver cannot see in the mirrors, including directly behind and beside the rear wheels. Drivers must check these zones before changing lanes or backing.

Choosing and staying in the correct lane, making wide turns from the proper position, and avoiding unnecessary lane changes. Buses need extra room, so turns are set up early.

A short explanation to riders about emergency exits, seat belts if equipped, and rules for safe conduct. It prepares passengers to act quickly if an evacuation becomes necessary.