Why is it important for bus drivers to be aware of their vehicle's blind spots?

A bus driver’s awareness of their vehicle's blind spots is crucial primarily for ensuring passenger safety. Buses are large vehicles that have significant blind spots, which can obstruct a driver’s view of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in the vicinity. When a bus driver is knowledgeable about where these blind spots are, they can take appropriate actions, such as checking mirrors and physically turning their head, before making maneuvers like lane changes or turns. This proactive approach greatly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.

Awareness of blind spots is not directly related to toll booth operations, maintaining faster speeds, or avoiding fines. While those aspects are important in their own contexts, they do not prioritize the well-being of passengers or others on the road, which is the primary focus of a professional bus driver. Safety is always paramount in the transportation industry, and understanding blind spots is a key factor in achieving that goal.