State Patrol inspects every school bus every year
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school buses are the safest form of transportation for getting students to and from school.
In a few weeks, when school buses once again are a familiar sight on Wisconsin streets and highways, their precious passengers will be riding in some of the safest vehicles on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school buses are the safest form of transportation for getting students to and from school. On average nationally, nearly 500 students, ages 5 to 18, are killed each year in passenger vehicle crashes during school hours, and 74 percent of those fatalities involve teen drivers. In contrast, four school-aged children are killed each year while riding in school buses.
To help maintain this commendable safety record, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Division of State Patrol inspects every school bus in Wisconsin every year for a total of about 11,000 inspections annually. In addition to annual examinations of all school buses, the State Patrol conducts spot checks and presale inspections.
State Patrol inspectors are well-trained professionals, who can identify a variety of potential safety problems. They closely examine brakes, steering, lights, electrical systems and other required safety equipment during each inspection.
inspectors use their knowledge and experience to protect children,” says State Patrol Lieutenant Karl Mittelstadt of the Motor Carrier Enforcement Section. “Thousands of students, from kindergarten through high school, ride buses to school each day. Many others ride school buses on field trips or to extracurricular activities, like sporting events. It’s our job to help make sure that every school bus is ready to do its job safely.”
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
Mentioned in This Press Release
Recent Press Releases by Wisconsin Department of Transportation
WIS 241 Closed Near Root River in Milwaukee County Due to Flooding
Apr 17th, 2026 by Wisconsin Department of TransportationWIS 241 (27th Street) in the city of Frankin is currently closed due high water levels at the Root River. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) encourages drivers to be aware of changing travel conditions. “Know before you go” with 511 Wisconsin, 511wi.gov or via the free app, to view highway closures impacted by flooding and weather alerts across the state. Current highway closure: Milwaukee County WIS 241 (27th Street) near the Root River is closed in both directions, Milwaukee County The timeline for reopening these roads remains unknown, as river levels are still cresting, and additional rain is anticipated. WisDOT officials are closely monitoring the roads and river levels and will reopen them as soon as it is safe to do so. While it’s difficult to predict if or where flooding may occur, WisDOT offers these tips: Flooding conditions may change rapidly so drive with caution at all times. Never drive through standing water or around barriers. As the safety slogan goes, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” It only takes a foot of rushing water to sweep away or float most cars and just two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. Just six inches of floodwater will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. Stay alert and slow down. Follow designated detour routes if state, county and local roads experience flooding. If you must travel, check 511 Wisconsin for the latest information on any road closures or impacts.
