Emergency Procedures and Accident Response
This domain tests what you do in the first minutes of a fire, crash, or evacuation: securing the bus, getting passengers out, accounting for everyone, and meeting post-accident legal duties. Passenger-endorsement questions often focus on evacuation order and post-crash testing windows.
Immediate actions
- Stop in a safe place, set the parking brake, turn off the engine, and turn on hazard lights.
- For fire, evacuate passengers upwind and away from traffic. Use the fire extinguisher only on a small fire and only if you are trained and have a clear escape path.
- Know the exits: rear door, side windows, and roof hatch. Keep exit markings visible and exits unobstructed.
Evacuation
- Direct passengers to a safe assembly point at least 100 feet from the vehicle and away from traffic.
- The driver leaves last after checking the bus, then counts passengers to account for everyone.
- Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger such as fire or traffic.
Accident duties
- Secure the scene and place reflective triangles within 10 minutes when required.
- Call 911, exchange information, and notify your carrier.
- A CDL holder involved in a fatal crash, an injury requiring immediate medical treatment, or disabling damage must be tested for alcohol within 8 hours and for drugs within 32 hours.
Worked example
Smoke comes from the engine compartment while you carry passengers. Stop, set the brake, shut off the engine, open the exits, and move passengers upwind and away from the bus. Call 911. Use the extinguisher only if the fire is small and you can stay between the fire and an exit. Do not reboard until responders say it is safe, and count passengers at the assembly point.
Traps that cost marks
Keeping passengers inside while smoke spreads; moving injured people unnecessarily; failing to account for all passengers; not placing warning devices; and missing the 8-hour or 32-hour post-accident testing windows.