Approximately what percentage of buses on the road in the U.S. are classified as Type C or D?

The classification of school buses into Type C and D categories encompasses the majority of buses operating in the United States. Type C buses are the conventional buses that you typically see transporting schoolchildren, while Type D buses include larger models, often referred to as transit-style buses that can feature specialized designs for specific transportation needs.

Research indicates that these two types comprise a significant portion of the total bus population. The statistic indicating that 85% to 90% of buses are classified as Type C or D highlights the prominence of these types in the bus fleet. This prevalence is due to the standardization and widespread adoption of these models to meet transportation regulations and safety standards in school districts across the country.

Other classifications of buses, such as Type A and B, make up a smaller percentage. Thus, knowing the vast majority of school buses adhere to the Type C and D classifications is crucial for understanding the structure of school transportation and the standards that govern their design and safety features.