By K C Pawling, Road Safety and Loss Prevention Specialist
As August marks the return of the National Back to School Month, communities across the country are preparing for the renewed presence of school buses on our roads. This annual transition serves as a critical reminder for county road departments and motorists alike to prioritize safety—especially when it comes to visibility and awareness on rural and county roads.
With school buses once again transporting children to and from school, extra caution must be exercised by all drivers, particularly those operating county road department trucks and heavy equipment. These vehicles often travel on less-trafficked rural roads where visibility can be compromised by overgrown vegetation or tall crops. Now is the ideal time to inspect intersections and roadside areas where weeds, bushes, or other obstructions may hinder a clear view of oncoming traffic.
According to roadway safety standards, the minimum line of sight at intersections should be maintained at a height of three and a half feet above the road surface per the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Any vegetation or obstacles that exceed this height can significantly impair a driver’s ability to see approaching vehicles, including school buses and young drivers. Road crews should be tasked with identifying and removing these hazards to ensure safe travel for all road users.
One of the most common seasonal visibility concerns is tall corn, which by late summer can reach heights that severely limit sight distance at intersections. While counties have limited authority over crops grown on private land, they do have jurisdiction over county rights-of-way. If corn has been planted within these areas, it should be removed after a documented respectful and informative discussion with the landowner or tenant. Not only does this pose a serious safety risk to school buses and other motorists, but it also introduces potential legal liability for both the county and the farmer. Landowners are responsible for maintaining safe conditions on their property, and counties must ensure that public rights-of-way remain clear of all unnecessary obstructions.
In addition to physical maintenance, communication and education are key. County supervisors and road department leaders should hold brief but impactful safety meetings with all employees who operate vehicles and equipment on county roads. These meetings should emphasize the increased presence of school buses, young drivers with school permits, and parents transporting children—many of whom could be distracted or inexperienced. Reinforcing the importance of defensive driving, reduced speeds, and heightened awareness can go a long way in preventing accidents.
The unfortunate reality is that school bus-related accidents have occurred far too often in recent years. Many of these incidents could have been prevented with better visibility, more cautious driving, and proactive safety measures. As public servants and community members, we all share the responsibility of protecting our children and ensuring they arrive at school—and return home—safely.
Let this back-to-school season be a time not only of preparation and excitement but also of renewed commitment to road safety. By addressing sight distance concerns, engaging with local landowners, and educating our teams, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our youngest and most vulnerable road users.
For questions or more information on training opportunities, contact NIRMA’s Road Safety Specialist, K.C. Pawling at kcpawling@nirma.info or 402-310-4417.
Be alert. Be proactive. Be safe.
