Two ways to sharpen your transit instincts.
Crossings. Cross only at corners and marked crosswalks. Wait for the steady white Walk signal, and never start crossing on a flashing or steady orange hand — that countdown is for people already in the street. Make eye contact with turning drivers; a green light for you is also a green light for them.
Sidewalks & bike lanes. Keep right, pass on the left, and step out of the flow before you stop to check your phone or a map. Treat protected bike lanes like a second street: look for cyclists, e-bikes, and delivery scooters in both directions before stepping off the curb.
Subway platforms. Stand behind the yellow tactile strip until the train has fully stopped and doors open. Let riders exit before you board, never hold doors, and if you drop something on the tracks, do not jump down — find a station agent or use the help point intercom.
Buses & OMNY. Wait on the sidewalk, not in the street. Board at the front, tap your OMNY card or phone once and wait for the chime, and use the rear doors to exit. On Select Bus Service, tap at the curbside kiosk before boarding and keep your receipt for inspectors.
Stay aware. Keep one earbud out near traffic, watch for turning vehicles even on a Walk signal, and trust your gut — if a car, scooter, or situation feels wrong, wait the extra few seconds.
Two-way street scans
Holding kids' hands and keeping them on the inside of the sidewalk.
Is this a smart transit move?