Public Transit Etiquette: 10 ways to improve the system

I'm a New Yorker, born and raised. I’ve dealt with my share of pushing and shoving on the buses and trains, but now that I live in Massachusetts, I have to say that the T-riders take the cake, no contest. There's hardly any concept of moving in to the car, here. I get the craziest looks.

I’ve often joked that the transit system needs monitors (or rope) to direct the flow of traffic. This would work for the buses at the T stations, especially. To get home, I take the bus from the T and that place is an absolute mess. Everyone is trying to pack on the bus at once, instead of boarding single-file, and it’s so annoying. (Don't even get me started on the lack of chivalrous behavior from the foreign men.) Now if there was a rope—much like the one you see at the movie theater and the bank—I truly believe that it would create some order and actually get riders on more quickly. I figure, if the system won't make a change then the riders should change the way they use the system.

Here are 10 things that we all can do to facilitate a more efficient transit system:

1. Have your method of payment in hand when boarding the bus or approaching the gate/turnstile.

2. When waiting to board the train, stand to the side and let the riders off first.

3. When boarding the train or bus, move as far in as possible to allow others to board behind you.

It’s rude to stand at the door when there are a dozen people behind you.

4. When exiting the bus, use the rear door.

5. When on the train or bus, remove large backpacks that will obstruct riders from moving past you.

6. Seats are for people, not shopping bags. Place your bags under your seat.

7. When travelling with little ones, it is usually best to break down strollers and hold your child.

8. Stay to your right! This is useful when going up or down the stairs, walking on the street or whatever.

It’s just a good practice.

9. Purchase/refill your card or ticket before your next trip. Nothing like avoiding a long line at the machine.

10. Mind your manners. “Excuse me,” “Please,” and “Thank You” go a long way.

Like so many things in life, if everyone did their part, the world would be a better place. I'm just sayin'.

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photo from www.wired.com