Substance Abuse and Bus Drivers

Have you ever heard of a bus driver in your town or district having a substance abuse problem?  In our little suburb, we hear about upper middle class parents with substance abuse problems.  I meet moms and dads with issues.  So, I don't think there is any reason we should expect bus drivers to be any different.  

There is a story in Montgomery County Texas about a problem with a bus driver who was arrested driving under the influence.  The driver was from Conroe.  You can read the story here.

The question is what can districts and parents do to protect students from being on buses where the drivers are under the influence of any substance.  

I don't think it is practical to check each driver.  However, there is the possibility of such a thing.  For instance, Smart Start, Inc. sales, installs, and maintains ignition interlock systems.  These systems make drivers blow into a Breathalyzer before starting the vehicle.  Their breath is tested for blood alcohol content.  If the level is too high, the vehicle will not start.  There is an expense, but is it worth it to ensure that school bus drivers are always sober?  

The technology available today can do wonders for buses, students, and drivers.  Whether it is GPS tracking, student tracking, on board cameras, or Breathalyzers, technology helps make students safer on school buses.  Could your district be the first to install a Breathalyzer?

Take care,

Steven Van Ooyen

CEO - Track What Matters

www.SchoolBusRoster.com