News & Insights

While many Contractors understand the importance of safety in their operations, few may actually be maximizing the benefits of Company safety policies and procedures. Did you know that an employer with a Certified Workplace Safety Committee is eligible to receive a five percent (5%) discount on their Workers' Compensation Insurance premium annually? Soliciting the assistance of your staff and developing a Certified Safety Committee will help you identify and correct additional risks you may ...

The beginning of the school year is an appropriate time for School Bus Contractors to review post-trip inspection procedures with drivers and aides. Pennsylvania law does not expressly prescribe a specific post-trip walkthrough or child-check procedure on the bus; however, federal law imposes requirements for post-trip inspections of a school bus. In any case, the Contractor’s written policy, training, documentation, and actual practice are especially important.

The first weeks of school often bring complaints as students, drivers, aides, and school personnel adjust to new routes and schedules. A parent may report unsafe driving, inappropriate language, failure to follow student transportation instructions, or some other interaction on the bus. As with any complaint received by the Contractor, it is important to respond promptly; however, Contractors should be mindful to review all facts and fully investigate the complaint before responding.

Insurance requirements for school bus contractors differ from state to state. While some states have specific requirements for school buses, other states only have requirements if some other type of charter transportation is required. These state requirements may also vary depending on the type of vehicle used, such as a school bus or school van. School transportation contractors should be aware that, in certain instances, federal insurance requirements may also apply. Whether or not federal ins...

As we approach the end of the 2025-2026 school year, school bus contractors are already making plans for work that must be completed over the summer months in preparation for the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Often included in these preparations over the summer months is a review of the employee handbook and supplemental company policies and procedures. As school bus contractors take the time this summer to review and update their handbook, it is recommended not to overlook language regard...

As we approach the end of the school year, school bus operators are already planning work that must be done over the summer months. For most operators, the summer months are the best time of the year to review and revise employee handbooks, as well as other employer policies and procedures. One component that should not be overlooked during this review period is language regarding the company’s drug and alcohol policy (or policies).

School buses are by far the safest mode of transportation. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as previously found that school buses are seventy times safety than passenger cars. Notwithstanding this excellent track record, accidents do happen. In the event of an accident with injuries, many school bus operators may wonder who is responsible for the medical bills of any injured passengers. This is addressed in the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law.