Can a school bus transport more pupils than indicated by the manufacturer's rated capacity for the bus?

The reason why it is not permissible to transport more pupils than the manufacturer's rated capacity for the bus lies in the importance of safety and regulatory compliance. Each school bus is specifically designed and tested to safely accommodate a certain number of passengers. Exceeding this capacity can compromise vehicle stability, increase the risk of accidents, and lead to serious injuries or fatalities in the event of a crash.

Additionally, adhering to the rated capacity is not just about safety; it’s also a matter of compliance with state and federal regulations. These regulations are established to ensure that all students are transported safely, and exceeding the designated capacity violates these laws.

Transporting children beyond the manufacturer's specifications can also affect the performance of the bus, putting stress on the vehicle's braking and handling capabilities, which can have dire consequences during operation. Thus, maintaining the manufacturer's rated capacity is crucial for the safety of the children and the legality of transportation practices.