Students Ride Free on Pasadena Transit Using GoPass
Effective August 19, 2024, Pasadena Transit offers free rides to students, allowing them to go anywhere at any time. Through the Metro’s GoPass program, Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) and community college students can ride Metro buses and trains at no cost. Students, read on to learn how to take advantage of this opportunity.
The Metro’s GoPass Pilot Program
The GoPass Pilot Program, launched by Metro, is an innovative effort to increase public transit accessibility for K-12 and community college students in Los Angeles County. The program allows students to ride on Metro buses and trains free of charge and on participating local transit agencies such as Pasadena Transit. The GoPass is tied to the TAP card system, making it easy for students to simply tap their card and ride for free.
The GoPass allows students to travel freely between home, school, and extracurricular activities. This program began as a pilot and has been extended due to its success. This initiative allows thousands of students to benefit from free transportation across LA County, and it can also help reduce traffic congestion around schools.
How Long Will Students Ride Free on Pasadena Transit?
According to Pasadena Now, students in Pasadena can continue to ride free on Pasadena Transit through 2025.
Extending programs like GoPass helps promote public transit as a practical transportation alternative. Pasadena Transit is a convenient way to visit popular points of interest in Pasadena, including Old Pasadena and the Rose Bowl.
How Do Students Get TAP Cards?
TAP cards are essential for students looking to access free rides on Pasadena Transit through the GoPass program. To get started, students must first register for a TAP card through their school or online.
According to Metro, your registration will be processed in 1 hour. Then, to activate your pass, you must tap your card on a bus farebox or validator, rail gate or validator, or at a TAP Vending Machine within 21 days.
Once activated, the GoPass is automatically linked to the card, allowing students to tap and ride buses and trains seamlessly. The process of getting a TAP card is simple, and once obtained, it can be used not just on Pasadena Transit but across various transit systems in Los Angeles County.
You can also add a virtual card to your phone. It’s a good idea to take a picture of the back of your card just in case it is lost or stolen. In this case, you should be able to request a replacement card from your school administration.
What Is the Difference Between Metro GoPass and EZ Transit Pass?
A Metro GoPass only works on Metro buses and rail. However, the EZ Transit Pass is a monthly pass that allows you to take unlimited rides on 23 public transit carriers in LA County, including Pasadena Transit.
Which Transit Agencies Are Participating in the GoPass Program?
Through the GoPass program and the TAP card system, students can utilize unlimited free rides on Metro Bus, Metro Rail, and over 13 other public transit agencies, including:
- City of Commerce Transit
- Culver CityBus
- Foothill Transit
- Glendale Beeline
- GTrans
- LADOT Dash
- La County Shuttles
- Long Beach Transit
- Montebello Bus
- Pasadena Transit
- Norwalk Transit
- Santa Monica Big Blue Bus
- Torrance Transit
California Bus Accident Statistics
In California, bus accidents are not uncommon, with hundreds of accidents reported each year. The top causes of bus accidents include distracted driving, driver fatigue, weather, road conditions, and bus company negligence.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 5,904 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal traffic accidents in 2021 — an 18% increase from 2020. Transit buses account for 36% of all buses involved in fatal crashes. Based on 2019 statistics, 277 people lost their lives, and about 3,939 people were injured in accidents involving a large truck or bus.
What Should I Do if I Was Involved in a Bus Accident?
- Seek Medical Attention
It’s crucial to check yourself for injuries and get a medical evaluation. Ensure you follow your prescribed treatment plan and document your injuries throughout your recovery. - Call 911
Contact the authorities to report the accident and ensure that a police report is filed. - Gather Information
Take photos of the accident scene, the bus, and any visible injuries. Get the contact information of witnesses and write down details of the accident, such as the time, location, and how the accident occurred. - Consult a Pasadena Bus Accident Attorney
After a bus accident, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced bus accident attorney. Pasadena personal injury lawyers can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and recover fair compensation.
We Represent Personal Injury Victims
If you sustained injuries in a bus or train accident, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Rose Accident Lawyers, we represent personal injury victims and maintain a 99% success rate.
Our award-winning personal injury law firm is committed to helping our clients receive the medical care and financial compensation they deserve. Our dedicated team provides compassionate legal representation and will guide you throughout the entire claims process. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and review your legal options. Call us today for a free case evaluation.