Commuter Etiquette: When the Doors Open

In the first instalment of Commuter Etiquette: The Escalator Rule, I wrote about the importance of keeping the flow of human traffic moving through the public transit system. The slightest slowdown or obstacle can be the difference between someone making it to work on time or not; or someone like me making my last train out of the city or having to take the less convenient and much slower commuter bus. In fact a 5-minute delay to someone like me, could mean I get home 1-2 hours later in the evening. As you can imagine, this can become a source of anxiety and frustration.

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So how do we prevent this unpleasant scenario? By abiding by some simple rules and common courtesies we can minimize these bottlenecks and obstacles.

When the Subway Doors Open

One such courtesy we (the commuter) can extend, is allowing passengers to get off the subway, streetcar or bus before trying to get on. It comes down to common sense and basic politeness. Doors usually can only accommodate people walking through them in one direction…that is, you can’t walk in at the exact time someone is walking out (without seriously invading their personal space by colliding with them).

Now, since you—as the embarker—have less to lose than the disembarker; insomuch that you can get on the next train if this one leaves without you; whereas the disembarker is heavily burdened if they can’t get off before the doors close because they’ll be whisked off to the next station; it be-hooves you to—when the doors open—step aside and allow those that want to get off, to do so.

It would also be decorous – once you have entered the vehicle – to make room for others who are also trying to enter by walking to the back of the car and not just standing near the door.

This rule is a contentious one. I’ve seen people almost come to blows over this rule. People who disregard common courtesy just to board the subway a few seconds sooner are being egregiously selfish. The train doesn’t leave any earlier, you don’t get there any faster, so why be a dick? Step aside and let others get off.

Other Rules:

• The Escalator Rule
• When the Doors Open
• ATMs
• The Cell Phone Rule
• The Door Dodger
• The Human Speed Bump