Mad Ramblings of a Transit Officer

News reports are often about distracted driving. We experience vehicles every day with distracted drivers. Safe driving requires continual practice with strong physical and mental functions. However, a bigger issue creates greater danger. Confusion. When drivers gets confused, the resulting actions occur outside the norm. Drivers must correct the confusion or severe consequences result. For instance, to prepare for a bus rapid transit system, the road is widened. The transit line uses dedicated lanes in the center of the road. To distinguish the dedicated lane, they paint double white lines. The portion used by vehicles is striped identical to other roads, yet vehicle after vehicle drive down the dedicated lanes. In talking to violators, the response is confusion. “I didn’t know I couldn’t use the lane.” “It forced me to drive in that lane.” “I wasn’t sure what to do.” I give instructions and reminders to drivers before they continue. I am puzzled by the confusion. The dedi...

Change, “to make or become different.” A simple word which can create havoc for one or thousands. One commuter boards the train, completing this routine once again. A voice overhead announces, “Attention please! All passengers must exit at the next stop!” Can you feel it? Increase in heart rate, flushing, and thoughts racing through your mind? It’s happening, change. Why does it happen? Change is frightening. Yet, change is always occurring around me. If I do not adjust, my ability to handle situations diminishes. I can’t let panic interfere with my ability as a transit officer. On the train, panic sets in. An announcement gives information to continue their trip, but change overpowers common sense. As I stand on the platform ready to give directions, I hear it is my fault they will be late to work. The meltdown is real! The meltdown displays in anger, blame, or silent stare. Though I had nothing to do with operating the train, I become the face of the organizati...