Etiquette Rule #43: Curb Spitting

Say It, Don't Spray It

The age-old habit of spitting is considered rude and taboo in many parts of the world, and mass transit should be no exception. Saliva plays an important role in your body, but it has no place on transit floors, seats or station platforms. Not only does your discharge elicit disgust, it spreads germs. While 98% of of your slobber is water, the other 2% consists of stuff we'd rather not think about! We understand the physical need to eject and expectorate at times, but it's important to consider fellow passengers and those around you at stations. Feeling extra phlegmy during cold and flu season? Carry tissues or a handkerchief to avoid sharing your misery. It's no fair that we have to walk, step, or sit on spaces and seats with your spittle. So, remember to spatter your saliva safely and you'll have our mouths watering.

Muni Manner: Don't spit in transit vehicles or waiting areas. It's the safe and courteous thing to do.

Etiquette Rule #42: Provide Navigational Assistance

Where the Streets Have No Name

Whether five or five thousand miles from home, we've all felt disoriented in new surroundings. And, navigating an unfamiliar transit map can derail even the most well-planned adventure. In those "touron" moments, a friendly gesture from a local yokel can go a long way in getting a wayward tourist back on track. So if you happen to know your native transit system and see a visitor struggling to find their way, lend a hand. It can be as simple as pointing someone to the right line, or advising them on the best route to a neighborhood gem. Holding residence in a destination city puts you in the unique position to meet and greet others. We Muni Ladies always see it as an opportunity (rather than a burden) to make our fair city feel more like home, sweet home.

Muni Manner: Help visiting riders find their way. It's the safe and courteous thing to do.

Etiquette Rule #41: Safely Stow Suitcases

Bag of Tricks

Whether you're embarking on a summer vacay, business trip, or heading home for the holidays, traveling to the airport by public transportation is a great way to avoid traffic and high parking fees. Things just got a little easier for travelers on the right coast, as the NYC Transit System recently launched a test pilot program to install luggage racks on several routes to airports. However, until transit systems around the world follow suit, the rest of us are forced to share space with Samsonites. If you're not known for packing lightly, be sure to keep duffel bags and oversized totes from blocking seats and exits on mass transit. And, we agree with Trimetiquette's take that it is perfectly acceptable to place luggage on the seat next to you if, placed on the floor, it could affect any rider’s ability to move about about the train. Remember, the goal is to keep walking areas on transit vehicles safe and clear of obstacles. So, be mindful of how your parcels affect passengers and we guarantee it will feel good to get rid of some extra baggage. Flickr photo: carpathiar

Muni Manner: Keep luggage out of the way of fellow passengers. It's the safe and courteous thing to do.

Etiquette Rule #40: Follow Rules for Bikes

Cycle of Life
The age-old turf war between bikes and cars is found in almost every metropolitan environment. Even though they struggle to share the road with automobiles, bicyclists are shown some love by public transportation systems with bike racks and designated spaces. But, for two-wheelers and transit passengers to ride in harmony, there are etiquette and safety rules that should be observed. The truth of the matter is that bikes take up rider space on transit--putting the squeeze on everyone. So, if toting your trike, don't block doors or seats, and take care not to box in passengers. Riding during rush hour? Be mindful of boarding rules to avoid delays. And if you're lucky enough to find a seat after stowing your cycle, ensure that your bike doesn't lean or roll away: your creeping gears make us nervous. Once you exit a vehicle and breakaway, don't block turnstiles or ride inside the station. Keep an eye out for others, and you can be sure these simple suggestions will keep fellow riders on your side - on and off the road.

Muni Manner: Maintain control of your bike on mass transit. It's the safe and courteous thing to do.

Etiquette Rule #39: Refrain From Fighting

Transit Tantrums

Close quarters on mass transit make it an easy place for tired travelers and cranky commuters to let flaring tempers fly. Whether in a disagreement with your traveling companion, or nearing your boiling point with a pushy passenger, it's best not to let things escalate or cause a scene. Before you get ready to rumble or form a fight club, consider the safety of those around you and the impression you may leave on young riders. To simmer down your transportation temper, try our civilized version of a one-two punch: take a deep breath and extract yourself from the situation. We Manner Ladies believe that a little anger management can go a long way, especially in shared spaces. So, respect yourself and others by avoiding altercations involving physical force - be the bigger person and walk away first. Take our advice on being a pacifist, and we guarantee you'll live to fight another day.

Muni Manner: Prevent situations on transit from becoming violent. It's the safe and courteous thing to do.

Etiquette Rule #38: Observe Rules for Animals

A Wild Ride

Public transportation can be a zoo, and we Muni Ladies are reminded of this when we see a parrot, chicken, or the occasional pot-bellied pig on our commute. Crikey! While these creatures are generally accompanied by a fare-paying human, it's important to be mindful of mass transit and pet etiquette. Petiquette states that riders should consider those around them when it comes to animals and their behavior. Remember that not everyone thinks it's a dog's world, and some riders may appreciate distance from man's best friend due to allergies or fear. If you must tote your buddy on transit, do so in a small bag or carrier and stow appropriately for the safety of others. On the flip side, service animals can ride unmuzzled on most forms of transit. Guide dogs and police pooches are working, so admire from afar unless you have permission to approach. Want to avoid becoming a pet peeve? Give our suggestions some paws for thought, and we guarantee you'll be the cat's meow.

Muni Manner: Be mindful of pets and service animals on public transportation. It's the safe and courteous thing to do.