Spring break is upon us, and summer travel season is right around the corner.

A lot of people will be taking a bus, but is it safe?  The Transportation Department says about 300 people die in motor coach crashes every year, so how do you avoid becoming a statistic?

HLN's Ryan Smith got these safety tips from industry insiders:

1) Research the bus company before buying your ticket.  Go to the government's website and take advantage of the SaferBus Mobile App, which among other things checks the safety record of the operator.

2) Trust first impressions: does the bus appear to be in good condition?  Do the tires have sufficient tread?  Are all the lights working?  Is the driver's area neat and orderly?  Small details like these can be indicative of the overall quality of the service, including safety.

3) Check the interior of the bus for safety features, especially seatbelts.  And most importantly, use the seatbelt during your ride.