Public transit
Request your bus stop before the last moment
Track the stop before yours, use the vehicle's stop-request control, gather belongings safely, and exit through the appropriate door.
Original editorial illustration; not a photograph of Cathay operations.
Knowing where to board is only half of a public-bus trip. Riders also need to recognize when their stop is approaching, signal the operator, collect belongings, and exit safely. Waiting until the bus reaches the stop can lead to a rushed movement through the aisle or a missed destination.
Learn the stop before your destination
Use the transit agency's current map, schedule, app, announcements, or onboard display to identify the stop immediately before yours. Note a stable landmark, but do not rely on a single storefront that may be hard to see at night.
If you are unsure which direction you are traveling, confirm the route and destination sign when boarding. Keep the return stop separate; it may be on another street.
Signal while there is time to stop
The MTA tells New York City bus riders to request the stop as it approaches by pressing a mounted yellow tape strip, pulling the yellow cord, or pressing a red stop button on a grab bar. Other systems may use different controls.
Look or listen for confirmation that the request registered. If the control does not respond, tell the operator when it is safe to do so rather than repeatedly moving around the bus.
Further readingMTA: Riding the bus (opens in a new tab)Prepare without blocking the aisle
Gather a small bag, cane, folded stroller, or other belongings before the bus stops, but remain seated or securely positioned until it is safe to move. Check the seat and floor so nothing is left behind.
Do not stand in the stairwell or doorway while the bus is moving. Give riders using mobility devices and anyone who needs more time room to reach the exit.
- Know the preceding stop.
- Send one clear stop request.
- Check belongings.
- Keep doors and aisle clear.
Exit and orient yourself on the sidewalk
The MTA generally directs riders to use the rear doors when exiting. Follow the operator's instructions and use the accessible exit process that applies to your trip.
After stepping off, move fully onto the sidewalk before checking directions or reorganizing bags. If you miss the stop, stay calm, get off at a safe later stop, and use the agency's trip planner or assistance channel to revise the journey.
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