Southern Vectis is urging passengers – particularly those in rural parts of the Isle of Wight – to make sure they are visible to bus drivers as the darker evenings set in.
With winter approaching and the clocks going back on Sunday 26th October, the operator is reminding people that not all bus stops across the Island are lit, and that wearing dark clothing or standing still at the roadside can make it difficult for drivers to spot them.
Southern Vectis head of communications, Nikki Honer, said:
“Not all bus stops on the Island are lit – especially the ones in more rural areas. Passengers who are wearing dark clothes and standing still whilst waiting for their bus may not be seen by our drivers.
“We ask that people help by shining their phone down into the road in front of them, and gradually rotating it as the bus approaches – being careful not to shine it into the driver’s eyes.
“Anyone using the Southern Vectis app can also track their bus using the ‘live times’ feature – so they don’t need to stand at a bus stop for longer than necessary.
“We understand that not everybody is able to make themselves seen, as they may not have a torch on their phone. Our drivers will still pay extra attention to help ensure customers are able to board during the darker mornings and evenings.”
For more information about Southern Vectis and its services, visit islandbuses.info.
Great idea, everyone should also carry a torch.
It is amazing how many cyclists cycle with no lights
on their bicycles.
Yes and most of them are on the pavement
One solar panel with small storage battery on each bus stop correctly positioned would provide sufficient night time illumination.