Riders may not spit, smoke, drink alcohol, litter, gamble or create graffiti on any transit authority property. Weapons and explosives are not allowed. Some systems prohibit eating and drinking while some, like New York City, allow drinks in a closed container. Amplified sound, such as a radio with speakers, is not allowed. Seats designated for the disabled must be vacated if needed by a disabled person. New York riders cannot ride a bike, skateboard or roller skate while on the train. Showing slides or film on the train is also prohibited. Ignoring any of these rules could result in ejection from the subway.
On the Washington, D.C. Metrorail, only service animals are permitted to ride without a crate. Bicycles are permitted all day on weekends but not during peak weekday hours. Meanwhile, in San Francisco, dogs may ride most hours, but bicycles are not allowed.
Fares vary depending on the train system. Some cities' systems charge per subway ride while others, such as those in San Francisco and Washington, D.C., charge according to distance traveled. Fares can range from about $2 to more than $10 depending on the distance. Small children often ride free, while seniors, the disabled and those with Medicare pay a reduced fare.
Riders are expected to observe subway laws and may be ticketed and ejected from the train system by transit authorities if they fail to do so. In New York City, violators of transit law may be criminally prosecuted, pay fines up to $100 or be imprisoned for up to 10 days.
