How often should a bus operator scan their mirrors?

Bus operators should scan their mirrors every 5-8 seconds to maintain optimal situational awareness while driving. This frequency allows operators to monitor the positions of other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians surrounding the bus. By consistently checking mirrors within this timeframe, operators can quickly respond to changes in their environment, thus enhancing safety for everyone on the road. Maintaining this interval helps to ensure that the operator is aware of potential hazards and can make informed decisions to protect both passengers and others in the vicinity of the bus.

The choices regarding longer intervals may increase the risk of missing critical information about road conditions or the behavior of other road users, potentially leading to unsafe driving situations. Keeping the scanning interval within the recommended 5-8 seconds strikes an effective balance between safety and the need to focus on driving.