EVASIVE MANEUVER

Objective:
The objective of the Evasive Maneuver is to show that the distance required to steer a school bus around an obstacle is often less than the distance needed to bring the bus to a stop. The exercise is also intended to decrease the driver’s tendency toward panic braking. 

Procedure:
Assure the driver that you will coach them through the first run of the maneuver. After the driver has assumed the proper position in the seat, with their hands at 9 and 3 on the steering wheel, they will run the exercise as follows:

1. Accelerate down the approach lane at a speed determined by the instructor, usually 25 mph.
   
   
2. At the double cones, the driver will attempt to evade the barrier without braking and with their foot off the accelerator. The direction and initiation of the evasive maneuver will be determined by the instructor, using a verbal command of “right” or “left.” 
   
   
3. After evading the barriers, the driver will brake to a stop, turn around and proceed to the beginning of the course. Speeds are increased with each successful run of 35 mph.

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