General Advice For Bus Travellers

Waiting For Your Bus

Contrary to popular belief, most buses do run punctually, so try to be at the stop a few minutes before your bus is due to leave. On roads where there are designated bus stops these must be used. In many rural areas and some urban areas, however, 'hail and ride' is operated where the bus can be requested to stop at any safe location, so try to find a location away from a junction, parked cars and on a straight piece of road.

Stopping The Bus

Keep a good look out for your bus, and signal to the driver clearly and in good time that you want them to stop for you.

Boarding The Bus

All buses in County Durham are driver only which means that you pay on entry, so it is advisable to try and have the right money for your fare and/or any passes/permits ready as you board, although a reasonable amount of change is given if required. Be sure to tell the driver exactly where you are going.

Intending passengers using wheelchairs or pushing buggies on 'Easy Access' routes can request that the driver lowers the ramp to facilitate access.

Alighting From The Bus

Let the driver know in good time where you want to get off. To assist in this many buses now have bell pushes located throughout the vehicle for passengers to use without having to leave their seat.

Ask for advice if you do not know exactly where to catch your return journey or if you have to change on to another bus. Most drivers will willingly help you, but do remember that they have a difficult job and a timetable to run to!