What is the acceptable amount of containment for a school bus before crossing a highway-rail crossing?

The correct answer reflects the safety practices required for school buses when approaching a highway-rail crossing. School buses are required to stop before crossing railroad tracks to ensure the safety of the passengers. The specified amount of containment, which is the distance necessary to have clear visibility and ensure that the bus is a safe distance from potential hazards, is the length of the bus plus an additional 15 feet. This distance allows enough space for the bus driver to evaluate the safety of the crossing and ensures that the bus is not positioned in a way that could create a dangerous situation if a train were to approach.

This practice emphasizes the importance of having adequate containment to prevent accidents and ensure that all passengers remain safe while the bus is at a railroad crossing. The additional distance ensures that the bus does not extend into the crossing area before it's safe to proceed, allowing the driver to effectively assess any oncoming trains or other traffic conditions.