PATH Reinforces Safety Rules to Protect NYC Riders

PATH prohibits passengers from walking between train cars except during emergencies

PATH Bans Walking Between Train Cars

PATH riders can't walk between train cars during trips, transit officials said. The agency issued the safety reminder October 18, emphasizing the prohibition applies during normal travel. Passengers may move between cars only during emergencies or when directed by PATH crew members or Port Authority Police officers.

Safety Rule Aligns With Federal Standards

The prohibition reflects federal transit safety regulations requiring agencies to protect passengers from hazards, according to transit officials. Walking between moving rail cars exposes riders to risks including falls, electrocution from third rails, and being struck by passing infrastructure. Federal Transit Administration rules prohibit passengers from riding outside designated passenger areas on rail vehicles. Specific incident data that may have prompted this particular reminder wasn't publicly available.

Policy Matches Other Major Transit Systems

PATH's rule mirrors policies at major transit agencies across the region and nation. New York's MTA prohibits walking between subway cars under its Rules of Conduct, with potential fines for violations. Washington's WMATA bans movement between rail cars except in emergencies, enforceable by Metro Transit Police. Chicago's CTA includes the prohibition in its Customer Code of Conduct. Officials didn't specify enforcement details or penalties for PATH violations.

Reminder Part of Ongoing Safety Communications

PATH issued the reminder as part of ongoing safety communications to passengers, though officials didn't cite a specific incident prompting the October announcement. The agency serves 13 stations across four routes connecting Manhattan with Hoboken, Jersey City, Harrison, and Newark. PATH carries approximately 82 million passengers annually under normal ridership conditions.

Riders Should Follow Crew Instructions

Passengers should remain in designated passenger areas during travel and follow instructions from PATH crew members or Port Authority Police if asked to move between cars. Officials emphasized the importance of following safety rules to protect all riders. Moovit provides real-time updates and service information for PATH routes throughout the New York-New Jersey metro area.