Loading and Unloading Passengers
Approaching the stop
Signal early, slow smoothly, and stop with the right side as close to the curb as practicable. Avoid double parking or stopping in a traffic lane when a safe pull-out exists. Set the parking brake before opening the door. Open the door only when the bus is stopped, and watch the stepwell and curb for hazards.
Loading and unloading
Let exiting passengers leave before boarding passengers move in, so the aisle does not become a two-way jam. Count passengers when loading and after unloading. Watch hands, feet, and clothing in the door. Passengers must stay behind the standee line and keep the aisle clear. Secure baggage so it cannot slide into the aisle or block an exit. Close and latch the door before moving. Check mirrors and blind spots, signal, and re-enter traffic only when clear.
At railroad crossings, a passenger-carrying CMV must stop before the tracks unless the CDL manual lists an exception, such as traffic controlled by a police officer or flagman. Stop, look, and listen; do not rely on the gate alone.
Worked example: At a curb stop, a passenger with a rolling suitcase tries to board while another passenger is still exiting. The correct sequence is to let the exiting passenger clear the stepwell first, then board the passenger, direct the bag to the baggage area, and confirm the aisle is clear. Loading first would block the exit path and create a trip hazard.
Traps that cost marks: pulling away before passengers are seated or behind the standee line; stopping too far from the curb; opening the door while rolling; forgetting the parking brake; losing the passenger count; and letting a passenger cross in front of the bus without warning.