Where are the cameras going to be located?
JCPS is placing four cameras in each bus. One will be up by the driver facing towards the stairwell. It will be able to see the driver, as well as kids getting on and off the bus. Another one faces backwards from the front of the bus, allowing the entire length of the school bus to be seen. In the middle, there will be two cameras that are back to back. One will be facing forward and the other backwards. The footage will be downloaded to a DVR on the bus. Once the bus driver returns to the compound, the video footage can be downloaded on the district’s server.
Related: School Buses Use Technology To Increase Student Safety
What activities will these cameras catch?
Criminal activity has already been caught on camera. In February 2013, two Frost Middle School students were arrested and charged with setting a fire to a seat on a school bus. Authorities were able to figure out exactly who to charge for this crime with the help of the cameras. The main point for the cameras is to keep students safe while going to and from school. Do you think the cameras will be a helpful asset in keeping your children safe?
Statistics
The National Safety Council gives out some rules to cover with your children to keep them save while on the bus:
- When on the bus, find a seat and sit down. Loud talking or other noise can distract the bus driver and is not allowed.
- Never put your head, arms or hands out of the window.
- Keep the aisle clear. Books or bags are tripping hazards and can block the way in an emergency.
- Before you reach your stop, get ready to leave by getting your books and belongings together.
- At your stop, wait for the bus to stop completely before getting up from your seat, then walk to the front door and exit using the handrail.
Related: Seat Belts And School Buses
Car accident law
Did you know that if there is a car accident involving a school bus and your child is injured and requires medical treatment that the parent’s personal car insurance will pay the medical bills? The Jefferson County School system is not required to carry Personal Injury Protection or Under or Uninsured Motorist coverage on the children they transport. This means you should make sure your personal car insurance provides coverage in this situation. If you do not have insurance or a car, the Kentucky Assigned Claims Plan will provide PIP coverage but Uninsured Motorist Coverage and Underinsured Motorist Coverage would not be available. This will help protect your children if they are in a bus accident.