The Art of Catching an ARTS Bus:
At an official bus stop:Wait at an official bus stop. All stated stops are listed in the schedule. Look for the ARTS Bus Stop signs at many stops throughout the system. As a flag-down:
You may flag down an ARTS bus anywhere along its route, so long as there is enough space for it to make a safe stop out of the flow of traffic. Wave clearly and make eye contact with the driver, if possible. If you are able to phone ahead, we will alert the driver to watch for you. By request:
If you are within 1/2 mile of a designated ARTS route, you may phone us at 267-9395 and request an off-route deviation. Such deviations are subject to adopted policies, so please make arrangements at least 24 hours in advance. After your stop has been approved, one hour's advance notice is all that is required. Be ready at least 5 minutes ahead of the time given by the dispatcher and remember, the bus may be as much as 5-10 minutes late. If you are not at your location when the bus arrives, the driver cannot return to pick you up. Always call and cancel your request if you have had a change of plans. Please note that, subject to time constraints, off-route deviations may not always be available.
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ACCESSIBILITY:
If you use a wheel chair or a service animal, ARTS can accommodate your special needs. All of our buses are wheelchair accessible and equipped with lifts and tie-downs. Wheelchair users should remain in their chairs and wear a lap belt while loading, riding, and unloading. Wheelchairs must be in good working order with functional brakes. Scooter users, once on board, should transfer to a seat if one is available. Not all scooters can be accommodated on our vehicles. Please contact ARTS in advance @ 209-267-9395 to see if special arrangements are required. ARTS drivers may not push wheelchairs up or down inclines or over obstacles. ALL mobility devices must be secured to the bus during transport. Attendants required by people with disabilities may ride free of charge.
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BICYCLES:
ARTS buses are equipped with bicycle racks which accommodate two bikes each. These are available on a first come, first served basis. Riders are responsible for loading and unloading their own bicycles. ARTS bears no responsibility for damage to bicycles transported on its bus racks. Under no circumstances may bicycles be carried inside the bus.
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TIPS FOR RIDING:
Be at your boarding point a few minutes before your bus is scheduled to arrive. Stand in an area where the driver can see you clearly. Wave and make eye contact to let the driver know that you want to board the bus. Please wait for exiting passengers to get clear before you board. Ask the driver if you are on the correct bus. Deposit the exact fare or ticket in the farebox, or show the driver your transfer or pass. Please note that drivers cannot make change. Ridership is limited to space available.
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RULES OF THE ROAD:
- Radios, tape players or CD players may only be played through earphones at a volume not audible by other passengers.
- Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times. Wet clothing, such as swimsuits, are not allowed. Clothing, wheelchairs and other mobility devices should be reasonably free of mud or dirt.
- State law prohibits eating, smoking or drinking any beverage while riding on a public conveyance.
- Pets other than service animals are not allowed on board ARTS buses.
- Profanity, loud or offensive language, or boisterous behavior constitutes a criminal act and is punishable by law. ARTS drivers are authorized to eject any passenger for illegal behavior. ARTS buses are equipped with video cameras. Any criminal acts recorded may be used as evidence in a court of law.
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