Stagecoach urges passengers to light up phones at bus stops

The operator says a lit phone screen helps drivers spot passengers sooner and stop safely.

Stagecoach South managing director Marc Reddy urged customers to “give drivers a helping hand” by making themselves visible in low light.

He said: "In the busy and dynamic regions that we serve, it is often not straightforward for a driver to see who is waiting at a stop for the bus, or just standing close to it and, of course, they do not want to delay their other passengers by stopping unnecessarily.

James Blaydon of Stagecoach (Image: Stagecoach)

"We train our drivers to use their observation skills as best as possible but, particularly as the mornings and evenings become darker, they will pay even more attention to help people to board safely, but we would ask our loyal customers to also do what they can to be seen."

Stagecoach has issued four tips for passengers waiting at bus stops.

Passengers should wake their phone and show its screen to approaching traffic, rather than use the torch, which could distract or dazzle drivers.

Passengers should point the screen towards the road, not at a driver’s eyes, stand where they can be seen and keep back from the kerb.

Stagecoach also urged passengers to wear bright or reflective clothing whenever possible.

The advice comes as autumn and winter bring darker journeys and poorer visibility.

Passengers can check services, buy tickets and track their bus on the Stagecoach Bus App.

Passengers can find more information on the Stagecoach website.