Loading and Unloading Passengers
The stop sequence
Loading and unloading looks simple in a question and is unforgiving in reality. Approach the stop at a controlled speed, signal early, and pull in close and parallel to the curb. Come to a complete stop before the door opens. Set the parking brake. The driver never moves the bus with the door open, and never opens the door while the bus is still rolling - both are classic wrong answers dressed up as convenience.
Know your count
Keep a running count of how many passengers board and how many leave. Load and unload only at designated stops, on the curb side where possible, and never in an intersection, on a curve, or on a shoulder where riders would have to enter a live lane. Watch the aisle while people move: do not resume driving until riders are seated or holding a handrail. Standees are permitted only behind the standee line and only up to the vehicle's posted standee capacity.
Traps
- "Let passengers off on the traffic side when the curb is blocked" - no. Find a safer spot.
- "You may open the door to let a late rider board as you roll out" - no.
- "Standees may stand beside the driver if seats are full" - no; that space is forward of the standee line.
Rule of thumb: stop, set, door. Three steps, always in that order, in both directions. If a question offers a sequence that puts motion before a closed door, it is the wrong answer.