Stay safe around TriMet buses, trains with these simple tips
More people are out and about with warmer weather and summer on the horizon, and TriMet’s operators need your help. Keep an eye out for them as they keep an eye out for you.
Our mission is to provide safe, reliable and convenient transportation options that are welcoming for all. That happens because of the dedicated efforts of hundreds of transit professionals. TriMet operators share the road with countless pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and others every day.
Whether you’re riding with us or not, here are a few ways to help everyone stay safe.
1. Stay alert
When you watch the video above, you’ll notice a running theme. Distraction is dangerous around buses and trains — just as it is around all motor vehicles. When people aren’t paying attention to what’s happening around them, the risk of a crash or “close call” is much higher.
When crossing the street or tracks, look up from your smartphone, and take out an earbud or move the headphones off an ear. If sunglasses, an umbrella, a hood or other clothing are blocking your view, lower or stow them so you can see. Never text while driving, biking, or riding a scooter or skateboard. Silence your phone and put it away out of your view so it doesn’t distract you.
2. Listen and look
Zero-emissions buses don’t make as much noise as diesel buses. MAX and the Portland Streetcar run on 100% renewable electricity and are much quieter than diesel trains. Even if you don’t hear it, a bus, train or streetcar may be closer than you think.
Be sure to listen and look both ways before you cross the street or tracks. TriMet’s transit centers are especially busy areas. Even if you’re in a hurry, it’s important to make sure there isn’t a bus or train coming before you cross. Remember, trains travel in both directions, so always anticipate a second train at rail crossings.
3. Obey signs and signals
Rail crossings have flashing lights, bells and crossing arms to keep you safe. Never try to “beat” a train through a crossing. A serious collision, for the sake of saving a few seconds, isn’t worth the risk. Each MAX train car can weigh more than 50 tons — that takes time to bring to a stop.
Some parts of TriMet’s system are restricted to transit and emergency vehicles only. Pay attention to signs and stay out of restricted areas. Don’t walk, roll or drive on MAX tracks, and only cross tracks at designated crossings and intersections. At stations, stay back of the white bumpy safety strips at the edge of the platform.
4. Make yourself visible
TriMet’s professional operators are trained to stay alert and look out for pedestrians, cyclists and others as they drive through our communities.
Make their job easier by making sure you can be seen. Especially when it’s dark or rainy, consider accessorizing with safety lights, reflective tape or stickers. Bright-colored clothing can help you stand out more. And whatever you’re wearing, avoid stepping out unexpectedly in front of a bus, train or other traffic. Using crosswalks is the safe way to go. While driving, biking, or riding a scooter or skateboard, always signal before changing lanes or turning, and yield to transit vehicles.
Reporting unsafe activity
Anyone can follow the above tips to stay safe around TriMet. You can also help TriMet by reporting unsafe or unwanted behavior: 503-238-7433 (RIDE) is our 24-hour public safety hotline. Call or text anytime to make an anonymous report. You can also call or text this hotline to report maintenance or cleaning issues.
Additionally, many MAX platforms are now equipped with blue-light security phones. These phones connect automatically to TriMet’s Security Operations Center — all day, every day.Also, check out TriMet’s Rules for Riding. By following these rules whenever you ride, you’ll help keep TriMet clean, safe and welcoming.