TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL & SAFE BUS RIDE
We make it a priority to provide safe, reliable and customer-friendly service. If it’s your first time riding, let the driver know as they can help make sure you get off at a particular stop. Drivers can usually answer your questions. Here are a few tips for your ride:
- Wait for the bus at a bus stop sign. If there are no posted bus stops in your area, contact our Customer Service Center to determine a safe location to flag the bus down. If flagging a bus down, make sure to be seen by waving your hands over your head. During dark or foggy weather we suggest you have a flashlight that you can wave for the driver to see you.
- Always choose the safest route to and from your bus stop. Cross at cross walks and use sidewalks when possible.
- Arrive a few minutes early to your bus stop.
- As the bus approaches, check the sign on the front of the bus or side window to make sure it is the bus you want. If you’re not sure, ask the driver.
- Let other passengers get off the bus before you board. Allow riders using the lift to board first. If you use the lift, please wait at least five feet away from the door so the driver has enough room to lower the lift safely.
- Be ready to board when the bus arrives. Let the driver know if you need assistance.
- Always board through the front door, unless you need to use the lift.
- If you use a power wheelchair or scooter, keep it in slow speed when boarding and exiting the bus.
- If riding out-of-county, have your fare or pass ready. Show your pass to the driver or drop your fare in the fare box as you board. Drivers do not carry change, so have exact fare. Dial-A-Ride buses can only wait three minutes for you to board.
- Select a seat and sit down. If the bus is full, share your seat. Keep bags and packages secure with you at all times.
- Seating at the front of the bus is reserved for elderly and disabled riders, please move to another seat or stand to allow these riders to use the reserved seating.
- Signal the bus driver about one block before your stop. Some buses have a yellow bell cord above the windows that you pull; others have yellow strips that you press. A bell will chime and you may see a “stop request” sign light up at the front of the bus. The driver will let you off at the next stop.
- Use caution when exiting the bus, making sure to watch your step. Also, traffic does not stop for transit buses as it does for school buses. Once you exit, wait until the bus pulls away before crossing the street. NEVER CROSS IN FRONT OF THE BUS – approaching motorists may not see you.