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Safety

Subway

STATION

Walking

SIDEWALK

Bikes

TRANSIT

Social

SCAMS

Subway

This section focuses on moving safely beneath the city streets, prioritizing situational choices over basic platform rules.

1. Don't go into empty subway cars

The Mirage

A completely empty subway car on a packed train is never a lucky break!

The Reality

It almost always means a broken AC, a biohazard mess, or a dangerous individual is inside.

2. Avoiding Eye Contact

The Golden Rule

Looking directly at an erratic individual is perceived as a challenge or invitation in NYC.

The Disconnect

Keep your eyes on your phone, a book, or the floor to completely neutralize the interaction.

3. Safe Zone Standby

The Edge Danger

Never stand near or on the yellow platform area to eliminate any risk of accidental falls or pushes. Stay in the center!

Upstairs Strategy

Wait upstairs if you feel uncomfortable and only walk down the stairs when the train is 1 to 2 minutes away.

Walking

Walking in NYC is a primary mode of transit. This section covers how pedestrians can navigate the streets confidently and avoid being targets.

1. Daytime Sidewalk Etiquette

The Sudden Stop

Never freeze in the middle of a busy sidewalk to take photos or look at your phone.

The Group Formation

Avoid walking three or four people wide, as blocking the path frustrates rushing New Yorkers.

2. Late Night Walks

Avenue Priority

Stick strictly to wide, heavily trafficked avenues at night rather than dark, quiet side blocks.

The Detour Rule

Take a longer, brightly lit route home if your phone map suggests an unlit or empty shortcut.

3. One Ear Out

The Split Habit

Keep at least one earbud completely out of your ear while walking alone on city streets.

The Silent Threats

Delivery e-bikes and electric scooters move incredibly fast and quiet.

Social

This section branches off into transactional and social safety, which is highly valuable for tourists visiting high-traffic hubs like Times Square or the Brooklyn Bridge and JFK airport.

1. The "Don't Hold It" Rule

The Force Gift

Scammers will aggressively try to push CDs, comedy tickets, or other items into your physical hands.

The Reflex

Keep your hands securely in your pockets when passing by these types of sellers who are aggressive.

2. Costumed Character Traps

The Photo Lure

Characters in Times Square will wave and aggressively pose for your camera. They are independent actors—not city employees.

The Policy

Walk directly past them without stopping or pointing your phone camera in their direction and ignore them.

3. Fake Airport Taxis

The Terminal Hustle

They (Unlicensed drivers) will pack your bags into an unmarked personal car and charge hundreds of dollars at your destination.

The Official Route

Follow the airport signs directly to the outdoor taxi stand or book through an official app like uber.

Bikes

This section helps riders navigate chaotic NYC traffic, follow legal bike lane etiquette, and avoid expensive docking penalties while sharing the streets with heavy vehicles.

1. Bike Lane Etiquette

For Bikers

Pedestrians often step off the sidewalk into the bike lane. If your on the bike POLITELY say excuse me.

For Pedestrians

Stay firmly on the concrete sidewalk until the white pedestrian walking figure appears.

2. Citi Bike Quick-Check

The Green Light Lock

Push the bike firmly into the dock upon return until the physical green light flashes.

The Penalty

A yellow or red light means the bike is un-docked, leaving your credit card active for massive fees.

3. What NOT to Do Around Cars

Never Weave

Do not zig-zag between moving lanes or cut around stopped cars at a red light. Staying in a predictable path is your best defense.

Green Light Scan

Even if you have the right-of-way, scan the street for aggressive cabs or delivery drivers trying to beat the light.