Hailing the bus is the best way to ensure that your driver doesn’t miss you! Although standing near a stop can be an indicator for drivers, not all services are required to stop. This is why hailing the bus is so important to get you to and from your destination.
Most stops are serviced by multiple routes, meaning buses won’t stop unless you hail. Buses aren’t always required to stop because many stops around Adelaide are serviced by multiple routes. This means passengers at a stop could be waiting for different services. Hailing your bus will indicate to the driver that you are waiting for their service.
Hail the bus as early as you can. Sometimes the late hail can’t be avoided. We know that passengers can get distracted or even forget, but hailing late can make it hard for drivers to see you. Drivers will always approach stops with caution, but a late hail can also make it harder for buses to stop once they have passed. If the driver cannot find a safe place to stop once spotting you hailing, they will continue with their journey.
Waiting near a stop or sitting at a bus shelter doesn't mean your bus will stop. Drivers need an indicator that their service is the right one for you. They also need to be able to see you. Standing close by to your stop without hailing or sitting at a bus shelter and hailing isn’t very clear for the driver.
Don’t fail to hail. Hailing the bus is simple. So, how do you do it? When you see your bus approaching, stand next to your stop and raise one hand in the air like you are waving. Keep your hand raised until you see your bus slow down and approach your stop.