Minibus guidance notes

Introduction

Minibuses provide a comparatively inexpensive, convenient and easily available means of transporting small groups of people from A to B. As it becomes increasingly popular it is quite possible that you will be called upon to drive a minibus at some time in your driving career.

Driving a minibus is not difficult and you may feel that because you have accumulated a number of incident free miles in a saloon car, little or no extra training is required. However, the differences between a saloon car and a minibus are quite pronounced. Obviously the size and weight of the vehicle are different, but the fact that you are both driving and responsible for a number of passengers, adds considerably to your workload. It is therefore essential that you, as the driver, make adequate preparation for this new task.

A higher level of competence is required to drive minibuses. since:

  • the vehicle is larger / heavier (requires greater stopping distances)
  • all-round vision is usually more restricted
  • more passengers are taken leading to increased stress on the driver (e.g. due to extra responsibility, excessive noise, distraction )
  • minibuses tend to be used for long journeys (longer exposure to hazards and increased risk of fatigue).
  • minibuses tend to be driven infrequently and thus drivers become "rusty".

Although fatal accidents involving minibuses are rare, recent examples have underlined dangers specific to this form of transport. Recent public concerns and greater awareness regarding minibus safety will inevitably lead to safer minibus design. To remain competitive, hirers will be obliged to use these high specification vehicles in their fleet.

In this guidance:

Download a copy of the Journey, driver and vehicle checklist.