Proper Bus Etiquette

Riding the bus is often thought of as the poor man's transportation but it is very convenient and in many cases can be more affordable than owning a car. If you plan to ride a bus anytime in the near future you may want to tale a look below to learn the proper etiquette.

1. Don't reach over people's head to press the button to get off. The stop buttons are often located in awkward places and you may sometimes have to reach over or in front of a person to reach that button. You should avoid just reaching over a person. Say excuse me first and then proceed to press the button.

2. Don't press the button by accident and say nothing. Sometimes we push the button too early and the bus stops at a stop that we do not want. Instead of pretending as though you did not press the button, speak up and alert the driver that you want the next stop.

3. Do not sit in seats that are specifically designated for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. On trains there are special seats for senior citizens and people with disabilities. Try your best not to sit in them. If you do sit in these seats be sure to get up if that particular person comes on the train.

4. Keep your music to yourself. Do not play the music on your phones out loud; chances are no one wants to hear it. Keep your music to yourself by discreetly listening to it.

5. Move as far back to the rear as possible during crowded days. If the bus becomes crowded keep moving to the back of the bus. Moving to the back of the bus increases the space and allows more people to fit on the bus.

6. Do not stand near the front of the bus near the bus driver. It is a hazard to stand before a certain point near the front of the bus. You should avoid standing at the front of the bus near the bus driver as it is dangerous and may make the bus driver feel uncomfortable. In this case sit down or move to the middle or back of the bus.

7. Make sure that you have the right amount of change. Not having the right amount of change before boarding the bus causes a delay. Try not to be that person that holds everyone else up because you did not get the proper change.

8. Don't leave belongings on the seat or sit in such a way that no one can sit beside you. You might not feel like having others sit beside you but you really have no choice since you can not reserve seats on the bus. Move your belongings to the ground or place them on your lap.

9. Keep your germs to yourself. Please do cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Germs travel well in tight confined spaces where the people are abundant. Do everyone a favor and cover your mouth.

10. Shower. You will be around many people so it is best to smell your best.