Daily Commute

I am one who commutes to work via Metropolitan Rail. It amazes me that those to whom I commute with have not grasped the etiquette of rail commuting. There are some simple rules to follow; however, they never seem to be followed. So, I am going to play “Emily Post” and share with you the proper commuter train behavior.

· When getting on the train que up and wait your turn, we all will get on the train. I know we all have our favorite seats, but let us be civil about it. Allow women on first or those who need assistance. Once on the train, if you sit on the upper deck, sit every other seat. If the train is filling up, then fill all seats. Do not place your bags on the seats; they have baggage racks for those items.
· If you are traveling with children, please have your child or those in your care sit quietly. This should be always followed.
· When exiting the train, exit orderly; allow others in front t of you to exit first. If you are on the lower portion of the train, and you reach the stair case to the upper deck, allow those passengers off, it should be every other person.
· Please, no feet on the seats, if you drink and eat, take your garbage with you. This also applies to your newspapers.
· Please have your tickets and passes ready, especially on the upper deck. It is very disturbing to have someone on their cell phone or iPod and the Conductor is tapping his hole puncher on the base of the deck to get your attention.
· On the morning commute, from the earliest train until about 10am, do not talk loudly, or use the cell phone. This is time to gear up for the day and focus on work, or to get that extra well needed rest.
· Cell phones should be limited to quick conversations. We truly do not want to hear about Aunt Ida’s gallbladder surgery. Nor do we want to hear about your business dealings, save that for the office.
This is just the basics of commuter rail etiquette. If you follow these simple civilized rules your commute and those who travel with you will have a less stressful ride.