Trimet gives 7 reasons to use mass transit we give you the counter arguments

The people you meet on public transit!

Trimet marketing personnel work tirelessly day and night trying to convince everyone of the lovliness of the  Trimet transit system.
And HERE is Trimet's list of 7 reasons that everyone should use mass transit


#7 – It’s safer.
According to National Safety Council data, riding the bus is 170 times safer than riding in a car. And an Allstate Insurance study found that Portland is one of the least safe driving cities in the U.S.!
Counter argument:7: Definitely less chance of getting hurt in a crash, but what about getting to and from transit in areas which are hostile to pedestrians, and does that include harm (including psychological) from other passengers?

#6 – You have options.
Whether or not driving is an option for you, TriMet provides the freedom to go where you want, when you want.
Counter argument: 6. Not at night or to all areas, and not right now when the next trip is an hour away

#5 – Less stress.
When you let a professional do the driving, you don’t have to deal with traffic or worry about navigating or finding a parking spot
Counter argument 5. Not when the bus or train doesn't run on time when one wants it to, there's some incident or misbehaving riders

#4 – More “me” time.
Instead of driving you can read a book, surf the web, text friends, get some work done, take a nap or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
Counter argument:
4. Some people aren't able to do that while moving (and the vehicle is stopping and starting),and of course if your on one of the sardine cans on rails you can forget any relaxation. The trade-off is that it often means less time at home

#3 – It’s healthier.
Taking TriMet helps us get more exercise because of the walking and biking we do going to and from our stops—it’s active transportation. Besides, it’s a great opportunity to get out in our community, meet neighbors and discover new things.
Counter argument: 3. What about the germs on the bus and other riders one must interact with? Your risk of colds and flu's is exponentially higher on transit

#2 – It’s actually pretty fun.
Transit is great for getting to and from work but it’s also a popular way to get to school, shops, concerts, libraries, and picnics in the park. Get out and explore your city!
Counter argument:2. Just because people do something doesn't mean they enjoy it, and I think few find it fun when they want transit to run on time, is broke down or the infamous ghost train or bus; then there is the distinct possibility that someone will have a medical problem or a behavioral problem which will require police intervention. Sorry transit is just not fun in most cases

#1– You save big on gas, parking and car payments.
Obviously, when you ride TriMet you don’t have to pay for parking or gas. And if you go completely car-free, it could also mean no loans, insurance or tune-up costs.
Counter argument:1. Only if money is more valuable than time, and you actually have to pay for parking. Riding transit can take up to 4 times the amount of time that driving takes. And if you do not live in Portland proper, there is a very high likelihood that transit doesn't even run by your destination. 

If you really want to know the truth about Trimet public transit, listen to the Trimet scanner for an evening or follow the Trimet scanner Twitter account. You'll find about 1000 counter reasons not to use public transit