General Travel Tips

• Plan your travel route in advance. Take note of landmarks and cross streets that will be helpful as you travel. If you get lost, get help from a police officer or MTA staff person to help you find your way.
• Keep an eye on your personal items at all times and use good judgment when talking to strangers.
• Be wary of public Wi-Fi. When you use public Wi-Fi, hackers looking to steal valuable information may access your data, including credit card or Social Security numbers. If you need wireless internet service, set up a virtual private network (VPN) that will allow you to access the internet securely while traveling.
• Be mindful of your surroundings when taking photos and videos for your social media platforms.
• When biking, wear a safety helmet and other protective gear as necessary such as knee/elbow pads, etc.

Carpooling Tips

• Prior to the first carpool trip, confirm that the driver(s) has a valid driver's license and “clean” driving record by requesting a copy of their driver abstract. Additionally, ensure that all vehicles being used are insured and have a valid inspection sticker.
• Discuss and make decisions with the driver and passengers regarding participants’ thoughts on pick-up/drop-off times and locations, use of the radio, conversation topics, smoking, reading, and eating in the vehicle.
• If you are sharing driving duties, rotate weekly, monthly, or daily, but develop a regular schedule. This reduces the chance of misunderstanding and confusion.
• Agree in advance on reimbursement for driving expenses such as gas and tolls and set up a payment plan.
• Develop a chain of communication and a backup carpool plan, in the event of illness or vehicle problems, which can impact your travel plan.
• Drive safely. Speeding, taking chances, or just plain negligence should never be tolerated. Make safety your rigid rule.

NOTE: These lists are not exhaustive. Please use good judgment when traveling.

For more safety hints, visit our Safety Precautions page.