Passenger Management and Emergencies
Passenger Management and Emergencies tests your authority in the cabin and your response to fire, medical events, and unruly riders. Maryland expects the driver to stay calm, keep control, and evacuate only when necessary.
Management rules
You are responsible for order. Do not argue with a rider or let a conversation distract you. If a passenger is unruly, stop at a safe place, ask the person to leave, and call police if needed. Keep aisles and exits clear. Do not allow smoking, alcohol, or hazardous materials carried by riders. In an emergency: stop safely away from traffic, set the parking brake, turn on hazard lights, shut off the engine, and decide whether to evacuate. Use emergency exits and assist disabled riders. Account for passengers, move them to a safe distance, and call 911.
Worked example
Smoke comes from the engine compartment. You stop, evacuate passengers upwind, call 911, and do not fully open the engine cover. Evacuation comes before firefighting; a small extinguisher is only for a small fire with a clear exit.
Traps
Continuing to drive with an unruly rider; using the extinguisher before evacuating; moving an injured person unless there is immediate danger; forgetting wheelchair users or passengers with limited mobility in the evacuation count.