Riding the bus puts a professional in the driver's seat, responsible for getting you to your destination in a safe manner. The National Safety Council has determined that riding the bus is 170 times safer than using an automobile. Safety to passengers is inherent in buses, due to their size, protective construction and observance of the speed limit and all traffic rules and regulations.
Riding as a bus passenger reduces stress, since you do not have to negotiate traffic, hurry your schedule or make unexpected stops. You can relax, enjoy the scenery and talk with other passengers.
Just walking to the bus stop will stimulate the cardiovascular system. The simple act of walking increases lung capacity and oxygen to the brain, enhancing awareness and stimulating thought. The legs and back benefit from use, increasing circulation and adding to muscle growth and bone strength. Regular walks to the bus stop promote an invigorating and awakening process which instills a positive outlook that can last for the remainder of the day.
Public transportation has a less negative impact on the environment, particularly cutting down on smog emissions. Buses emit 95 percent less carbon monoxide than private vehicles per passenger mile. Buses double the efficiency rate of private transportation, accounting for a savings of 45 million barrels of oil in a given year. The U.S. could save 40 percent in imported fuel costs if one of 10 citizens relied on the transit system. With the reduced amount of vehicles on the road, people benefit from the cleaner air.
Public transportation has less impact on household expenses by reducing gas costs and vehicle maintenance and repair. Regular bus riding provides dependable service, less prone to late arrivals and breakdown than privately owned vehicles. One fourth of seniors over the age of 75 do not drive, and benefit from the convenience of regular bus transportation. Without public transit, many seniors would become homebound, unable to make trips for necessities. Buses provide enough room for teams and larger social gatherings who wish to attend events.
Using the transit system eliminates the extra parking facilities and area required of the voluminous number of cars it replaces. It frees up extra acreage that might otherwise be allotted to additional parking garages and lots.
