Why is it that in NYC, many people like to stand on trains when there are seats available?

Question

I see people standing on trains when you can use seats. I can see if seats were all filled, but why settle for standing when you can comfortably sit?

Answer 1

the seats are kind of dirty and they're not at all comfortable. plus, if you sit down next to somebody, they could fall asleep and lean on you.
also, i feel that those seats are reserved for the elderly or handicapped. and my commute is only 15 minutes.

Answer 2

Not all seats are comfortable, and it is a polite thing to do, but it is a quick way off the train whrn it is your stop. Some people have issues also being next to others.

Good questions but there are more complicated things about people that need to be questioned.

Answer 3

If you've had to walk aways to the train, sitting down for a while afterwards might make someone feel stiff. Also, we as people don't always like to sit that close to others. Ever sit at a bar, and try to leave a bar stool or two between you and someone else? That kind of thing.

Answer 4

Because who knows who or what was sitting there last. I always stand. As someone else said, it's easier to get off the train. Those seats usually have some kind of **** on them! yuck!! I once saw vomit.

Answer 5

Whether in NY or another major city, I often stand if I'm on public transit. May be me, but I like to look around. Also, I don't necessarily want to sit next to some folks. It's kind of close quarters, if you know what I mean.

Answer 6

Two words- Skateboard and Skedaddle. Being formerly from Long Island, I personally just liked the challenge to be able to stay straight, and I stood in almost a skateboard stance.
But NYC life can be hectic, and everyone bumrushes the doors. Best to be constantly alert, never have to jump up when you almost miss your stop, and be able to avoid the occassional seedy character while you're at it.

Answer 7

It depends where you are going & at what time you are traveling.
As well as which line you are on. Money talks for the better train lines, and bs walks. or stands as you point out. Try sitting on japan rails !!

Answer 8

some like to keep their sense of balance, which is also a form of excercise, some like to leave space for elderly or those who cannot stand, and some are just too clausterphobic and can't wait to get off the train

Answer 9

Standing up on the subway and grabbing onto anything is filthier than sitting down.

Answer 10

Ironically, they are too lazy to sit down. Or because sitting required a little more intimate contact with people (especially if they'd have to sit next to someone). Surviving in a big city is all about maintaining your space (and, thereby, sanity).