Series 3-8: Defensive Driving – Intro

The “Defensive Driving” section of the Alberta School Bus Knowledge Test emphasizes the importance of proactive and cautious driving to ensure student safety.

Alberta School Bus Test - SERIES 3-8: Defensive Driving – Intro

1 / 12

In the S.A.F.E. model, what does the “S” stand for?

SEE what is going on around you

STEER smoothly at all times

STOP at every intersection

SIGNAL early and often

2 / 12

Which statement best summarizes the purpose of defensive driving for school bus operators?

To avoid receiving parking tickets

To reduce wear and tear on the bus

To avoid becoming part of traffic collision statistics

To get to destinations faster

3 / 12

In the S.A.F.E. model, what does the “A” stand for?

ANALYZE what you have seen

ANTICIPATE green lights

ACCELERATE to clear hazards

ALIGN the bus with the curb

4 / 12

Studies have shown that the average driver is capable of driving:

Exactly as safely as they currently do

Only half as safely as they currently do

Four times more aggressively than they currently do

At least twice as safely as they currently do

5 / 12

When “seeing” in the S.A.F.E. method, which of the following should a defensive driver include?

Only the mirrors and dashboard instruments

Only vehicles traveling in the same direction

Only the lane directly ahead

The front, rear, left, right, overhead, and the road surface beneath the vehicle

6 / 12

In the S.A.F.E. model, what does the “E” stand for?

ENTER intersections quickly

EASE off the accelerator at all times

ESCAPE by putting your plan into action

ENSURE you always have the right-of-way

7 / 12

In the S.A.F.E. model, what does the “F” stand for?

FIND the way to avoid a hazard

FOLLOW the vehicle ahead closely

FREE the roadway of all obstacles

FIX your eyes only on the road ahead

8 / 12

Why is it important that an escape plan does not create a second danger?

Because passengers will be confused by any sudden maneuver

Because it is illegal to change lanes to avoid a hazard

Because avoiding one hazard by creating another can still lead to a collision

Because only the original hazard is important

9 / 12

When you see children playing beside the road, what is the correct defensive driving response?

Sound the horn and maintain your speed

Ignore them and focus on traffic signals only

Assume they will stay on the sidewalk

Analyze the situation and recognize the hazard if a child runs into your path

10 / 12

What role does a school bus driver have in traffic situations, according to the S.A.F.E. description?

A passenger who relies on other drivers’ decisions

A passive observer who only reports hazards

A supervisor who never needs to change driving behavior

An active participant who must constantly assess and respond to hazards

11 / 12

008-According to the Canada Safety Council, which phrase best defines “Defensive Driving”?

Driving only when traffic is light and weather is clear

Driving in a way that keeps you ahead of other vehicles

Driving within the posted speed limit at all times

Driving to prevent collisions despite others’ incorrect actions and adverse conditions

12 / 12

Approximately how many motor vehicle collisions occur each year in Canada?

About 65,000

Over 6 million

About 160,000

Over 650,000

Your score is

This section teaches drivers to anticipate potential hazards, maintain safe following distances, and remain vigilant at all times. Key defensive techniques include scanning intersections, checking mirrors frequently, and being prepared for sudden stops or unexpected actions from other road users. The test covers strategies for handling adverse weather conditions and managing distractions inside the bus. Mastery of defensive driving principles is crucial for preventing accidents, protecting passengers, and fostering a culture of safety on Alberta’s roads.