When should a driver start in second gear?

Starting in second gear is appropriate for average terrain and load because it provides smoother acceleration without excessive torque that might be necessary in lower gears. This allows for better control of the vehicle, particularly when the load does not require the increased power and torque that first gear provides. It allows the driver to ease into the speed needed for average conditions without overwhelming the bus's powertrain or risking wheel spin, which can occur if too much power is applied unexpectedly.

In scenarios involving heavy traffic, starting in first gear is often preferred to allow for easy and immediate acceleration from a stop. When driving downhill, drivers typically take advantage of first gear or even lower gears to assist with engine braking, maintaining control over speed. In reverse, starting in second gear is not applicable as this gear is not designed for backward movement, necessitating the use of first gear instead for optimal control.