How is the requirement for children to be seated on a school bus related to safety?

The requirement for children to be seated on a school bus is closely tied to safety for several reasons. First, when children are seated properly, it helps to prevent excessive movement within the vehicle. This is crucial during transit, as an unrestrained child can easily lose balance and fall, potentially causing injury, especially during sudden stops or sharp turns. Keeping children seated minimizes distractions for the driver, which can lead to safer driving conditions.

Additionally, ensuring that the bus can move safely is another key aspect of this requirement. If children are not seated, it could interfere with the driver's ability to operate the bus smoothly and maintain control. Having all passengers seated promotes stability and allows the driver to focus fully on navigating the road, which is critical for avoiding accidents.

Therefore, the requirement for children to be seated on a school bus addresses multiple facets of safety—both protecting the children from movement-related injuries and supporting the driver's ability to control the vehicle effectively.