What should a bus operator do if they experience fatigue while driving?

When a bus operator experiences fatigue while driving, the safest and most responsible action is to pull over safely and contact dispatch for assistance. This approach prioritizes the safety of the operator, passengers, and other road users.

Driving while fatigued can significantly impair judgment, reaction times, and overall driving performance, similar to being under the influence of alcohol. By pulling over, the operator ensures they are no longer a risk on the road and can take the necessary time to rest or receive help. Contacting dispatch allows for proper management of the situation, which might involve arranging for another operator to take over or providing guidance on the next steps.

In contrasting situations, continuing to drive to the next stop could place all road users in jeopardy, drinking coffee does not effectively alleviate fatigue and could lead to false confidence, and switching with another driver immediately may not be feasible or safe depending on the circumstances. Hence, safely pulling over and requesting assistance is the most prudent decision in the event of fatigue.