Chicago ranked near the bottom of the list of safest cities in America. However, several of its suburbs are ranked as one of the safest in the nation. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t be a victim on a bus or train. In fact, there have been several reported incidents of sexual assault on public transportation since 2016. Here are five ways to stay safe while traveling through this bustling city.
Crime in Chicago
Chicago has seen an increase in crime last few years, and the public transportation system is not immune from violence. In fact, it may be more likely to experience violence than other areas of the city.
The Chicago Transit Authority
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the largest public transit system in the United States. It operates buses, trains, and the L train.
CTA began operating on Oct. 1, 1947, after it acquired the properties of the Chicago Rapid Transit Company and the Chicago Surface Lines. Furthermore, it became the predominant operator of city transit when it purchased the Chicago Motor Coach system on Oct. 1, 1952.
It has more than 300 buses, trains, and stations throughout the city. It also provides paratransit services for people with disabilities who cannot use regular buses or trains but still need to get around town quickly.
The agency’s mission was to provide a safe and efficient means of transportation for its customers while also providing them with convenience at every step of their journey.
A 2016 Study by Metra
A 2016 study by Metra found that sexual assaults on trains had increased by more than 80 percent in a year’s time. The study was conducted by an Illinois commuter railway agency that operates in the Chicago area.
Downtown Brown Line Station
In 2018, a woman was raped by a man at a downtown Brown Line station. The man was caught by police, convicted of sexual assault, and is currently serving time in prison. He is also on the sex offender registry.
Stay Safe!
If you’re on a crowded train or bus, make sure that all valuables are secured in a plastic bag and clearly labeled so they cannot be removed from their container by someone else while riding public transportation. If someone is acting suspiciously or acting out of place, get off the bus or train immediately and call 911 if necessary.`
While riding the CTA, or any public transportation, you should always be aware of your surroundings and avoid any situations that may place you in danger.
Overall Incidents
The CTA has fewer incidents than most other transit agencies in America. Moreover, it has a good safety record when it comes to crime on buses and trains, but there are still some concerns that need to be addressed.
Traditionally, Metra trains have been viewed as safer, cleaner, and more orderly than the CTA. You should never knowingly ride a train that has been tampered with by another person.
Written by Roy Charo
Sources:
CBS News: Violent crime is spiking along the CTA train system: A look at the numbers; by Elliott Ramos, Shardaa Gray, Michele Youngerman
Chicago Sun-Times: For public transit to be viable, riders must feel they’re safe on trains and buses; By
Travels and Treasures: How to get around Chicago safely; by Tanya Taylor.
Top and Featured Image By GCF Photography’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image By Aakash Solanki’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
