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 the right stop. Drivers can also usually answer your questions. Here are a few tips for a safe ride:
- Wait for the bus at a bus stop sign. During dark or foggy weather we suggest you have a flashlight that you can wave for the driver to see you.
- 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.
- Always choose the safest route to and from your bus stop.
- Cross streets at traffic lights.
- Use sidewalks whenever possible.
- Arrive at least five (5) minutes early to your bus stop.
- Stay back from the road and hold on to young children.
- If you are not at a designated stop, follow “flag stop” procedures which include an overhead wave.
- 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. As you board the bus, ask the driver if you are unsure.
- Let other passengers get off the bus before you board. Allow riders using the lift board first. If you use the lift, please wait at least five feeet away from the door so the driver has enough room to lower the lift safely.
- Be ready to board when the bus arrives. If paying a fare, have your fare or bus pass ready. Be prepared with exact change for fare as drivers do not carry change. Show your pass to the driver or drop your fare in the fare box as you board.
- When boarding or exiting the bus, let the driver know if you need assistance.
- Board through the front door unless you need to use the lift/ramp or require the bus to be lowered.
- If you use a power wheelchair or scooter, keep it in slow speed when boarding and exiting the bus.
- Select a seat and sit down. If the bus is full share your seat. Keep bags and packages secure at all times.
- Seating in the front of the bus is reserved for elderly and disabled riders. Please move to another seat or stand to allow these riders to have 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 requested” sign light up at the front of the bus. The driver will let you off at the next stop.
- Take your personal items when you exit the bus. Alert the driver if you notice an unclaimed item on board.
- Watch your step while exiting the vehicle. Use the handrail and ask the driver to lower the bus if you are concerned about the distance from the step to the ground.
- Use caution when exiting the bus. Traffic does not stop for transit buses as it does for school buses. After exiting the bus, wait for it to leave before crossing the street. Never cross in front of the bus.
Still a little unsure, or want to know more about riding the bus and safety? Mason Transit Authority offers free travel training. Contact our Customer Service Center to set-up your group or one-to-one travel training today!