Is it true that a school bus driver is not required to wear a seat belt at all times?

A school bus driver is required to wear a seat belt at all times while operating the vehicle, which is in line with safety regulations. The rationale behind this requirement is that seat belts are an essential safety feature designed to protect drivers in the event of a collision or sudden stop. Wearing a seat belt significantly reduces the risk of injury or fatality during accidents, not only for the driver but also sets an example for the passengers, especially young students on the bus.

While there may be various rules regarding seat belt usage for passengers, for the driver, consistent use is critical for ensuring their safety and by extension, the safety of the children on board. Regulations can vary by state and jurisdiction; however, in Illinois, the law mandates that drivers wear a seat belt. The notion that this requirement may vary with weather conditions or road types like highways does not hold, reinforcing the necessity of maintaining proper safety practices at all times.