How to Avoid Traffic-related Injuries in Boston

Dumb Scenario 1: You are last in line to get on the bus and scan your CharlieCard, but you're tired or feeling especially limp and don't brace yourself for the bus to recommence motion. Potential Injurious Consequences: You tumble into the burly man in front of you and somehow feel ashamed for the rest of your bus ride while he gives you dirty looks; you tumble into the nanny and knock groceries out of her hands and feel like a prick; you tumble into the empty bus and hit your head on a pole or bruise your shins on a seat.

Smart Scenario 1: You are first in line to board the bus, so you have time to find a seat and/or an anchor whilst the suckers behind you board. OR, you scan your CharlieCard and enter warrior pose to maintain your balance. Potential Injurious Consequences: None.

Dumb Scenario 2: You decide you can watch the traffic lights and walk against the walk/don't walk signal, but you then change your mind two cars into the five-car lane when the light turns green. Potential Injurious Consequences: Whiplash from a very sudden change in direction; tripping and falling in the street before either a negligent or lead-footed driver (read: hospitalization); serious embarrassment and loss of street cred.

Smart Scenario 2: Obey the walk/don't walk signal. Potential Injurious Consequences: None.

Dumb Scenario 3: You're from one of those silly countries where people drive on the left side of the road, so you only look to the right before crossing the street. Potential Injurious Consequences: You get hit by a car; you get hit by a bus; you get hit by a train.

Smart Scenario 3: You look both ways when crossing the street, even if it's a one-way road. Potential Injurious Consequences: None.