Why do bus drivers wave to each other?

This stems from the sense of camaraderie among fellow drivers, and drivers rarely greet those from other companies.

Of course, whether a driver greets others also varies with personal temperament.

Company policy generally discourages hand waves while on the road, because a greeting that is too big could interfere with driving.

The greeting is not outright banned, but drivers are asked to be careful, following the principle that safety comes first while operating a vehicle.

They do not wave at corners where they are turning the wheel, and they exchange hand waves only when both are going straight or when they judge it safe to do so.

A hand wave serves to confirm that an oncoming driver is not dozing off. It works as a device that breaks up the monotony of driving and keeps attention sharp.

This greeting is considered to raise driving focus and help prevent drowsy driving.

Even though bus drivers work for the same company, they almost never have time to gather and talk together. Direct conversation is impossible while driving, so the hand wave they exchange on the road is effectively their only channel of communication.

This greeting is less a kind of military-style custom and more a way to build camaraderie and express friendliness in a lonely driving environment.

Many drivers can even recognize a fellow driver just from the vehicle's license plate number.

Thanks to this sharp eye, drivers prepare a greeting in advance with a glad heart.