What should a bus driver do if they notice a potential hazard on the road?

When a bus driver notices a potential hazard on the road, signaling and slowing down to assess the situation is the most prudent course of action. This approach allows the driver to gather more information about the hazard, determine its nature and severity, and decide on the safest way to proceed.

By signaling, the driver communicates their intention to other road users, which is crucial in maintaining safety. Slowing down provides the driver with the time needed to evaluate the hazard effectively, reducing the risk of an accident. This can include identifying if the hazard is a stationary object, a vehicle with a problem, pedestrians, or road conditions that may change further down the route.

In contrast, continuing to drive as if nothing is wrong may lead to an accident, while turning around could create confusion for other drivers and may not be safe depending on the road layout. Ignoring the hazard altogether disregards the fundamental responsibility of a bus driver to ensure the safety of passengers and others on the road. Assessing the situation allows the driver to make informed decisions to maintain safety.