What To Expect When Taking Public Transit
No matter your age or experience level with public transit, it's always a good idea to review the basics from time to time. The following outline important information and reminders for you to know.
The Basics of Taking Transit:
- Know what the Seniors fare is (also known as Concession fare), have exact change ready before boarding to reduce confusion, and don't forget about the variety of discount programs and passes available to you!
- Don't be shy about asking bus drivers for support. Whether it's to "kneel" the bus so you can get on or off more easily, if you need to have a certain stop called out, or help identifying your route, they're there to help.
- If you need more hands-on practice or one-on-one training, TransLink has a variety of services through their Access Transit Programs to make you comfortable using public transit. Call to make an appointment, 604.453.4587.
Take advantage of courtesy seats available at the front of buses and in key areas of SkyTrain.
Safety Considerations:
- For safety and etiquette reasons, wait to the side until people disembarking have done so, and then board.
- Familiarize yourself with all the safety measures found throughout TransLink's system. In addition to features such as silent alarms, speakerphones and CCTV monitors, you'll find TransLink police, transit security officers, and system attendants and operators, all available to help you if needed.
- On the bus, ring for your stop well in advance. Pulling the cord just before your stop forces the driver to stop aggressively or, if it's not safe, to skip the stop entirely and proceed to the next one. If you're unsure as to where you need to get off, ask the driver to call out the stop.
- Remember not to block transit (SkyTrain, SeaBus, Bus) doors, as keeping all doorways clear is important for safety and a smooth ride.
- Take advantage of courtesy seats available at the front of buses and in key areas of SkyTrain. These are reserved for those with disabilities and/or seniors.
Access for Everyone:
- People with disabilities have access to three main transportation support programs: HandyDART, HandyCard and the Taxi Saver Coupons Program.
- Don't forget TransLink's fleet and facilities are 100% accessible - buses, community shuttle minibuses, SkyTrain, SeaBus and West Coast Express vehicles are all fully accessible.
- If you have a new mobility device and would like to practice manoeuvring around a bus or learn how to properly secure your device when the vehicle is moving, TransLink can arrange for some orientation sessions. Call 604.264.5420 to make an appointment.
Also view our Safety & Etiquette and Accessible Transit articles for more details on these important considerations for transit travel.
If you're a senior who has taken transit recently, share your experience with other users and leave a comment below.