Loading and Unloading Passengers
What this domain tests
Loading and unloading questions test whether you can stop and secure the bus, control the door, and account for passengers so no one is caught in the door, left at the curb, or struck while crossing.
Core rules
- Choose a safe stop: signal early, stop close to the curb, and avoid blocking intersections or forcing passengers into traffic.
- Secure before opening: set the parking brake, shift to Park or Neutral, keep the service brake applied as needed, and open the door only when the stop is safe.
- Loading: watch the curb and mirrors, assist passengers using handrails or the lift, secure mobility devices, and count passengers as they board.
- Unloading: tell passengers to stay seated until the bus stops; open the door; watch them exit; check both mirrors and the area in front of the bus before closing the door.
- At terminals, use the designated loading area and do not block fire lanes.
Worked example
A passenger using a walker is waiting at a curb with a high step. The driver stops close to the curb, sets the brake, deploys the lift, checks the interlock, assists the passenger onto the platform, raises and stows the lift, secures the walker, and counts the passenger before moving. Reasoning: the lift and securement steps protect the passenger during boarding and prevent the device from becoming a projectile.
Traps that cost marks
Opening the door before the bus is secured; stopping too far from the curb; moving with the door open; failing to count passengers; and unloading into traffic without checking mirrors. Never let a passenger cross in front of the bus without making eye contact and ensuring traffic is stopped.