Do school bus drivers have to wear seat belts at all times?

In Illinois, school bus drivers are not required to wear seat belts at all times because school buses are designed with safety features that provide protection without the need for seat belts. The structure of a school bus, including its high seating position, reinforced bodies, and compartmentalization—where seats are designed to absorb impact and protect passengers—means that seat belts are not mandatory.

While seat belts are crucial in most vehicles, the regulations regarding school buses allow for a different approach to safety. This is based on the understanding of how school buses protect their occupants in the event of a collision or sudden stop.

It's also important to note that this regulation may lead to different safety measures for passengers, as they are generally required to remain seated while the bus is in motion, further reducing the risk of injury. However, there are situations and additional safety protocols—such as during the transportation of students on trips—where the rules may vary, but wearing them is not a universal requirement for the drivers in every scenario.