What is considered one of the more dangerous procedures for a school bus driver?

Loading and unloading students is considered one of the more dangerous procedures for a school bus driver because it involves the direct interaction between the bus and children who may not fully understand the dangers associated with traffic. During these times, students are often in close proximity to the bus, and they may behave unpredictably, which increases the risk of accidents.

Drivers must be especially vigilant when children are entering or exiting the bus, as they can easily be obscured by the vehicle itself, leading to blind spots. Furthermore, the risk is heightened by the presence of other vehicles that may not be aware that children are crossing the street or getting on and off the bus. Proper procedures, such as using stop arms and activating hazard lights, are essential to ensure the safety of students during this critical time.

The other options, while they may present challenges, do not involve the same immediate and heightened risk of injury to children as loading and unloading does.