Fare evasion at the new Boston T fare gates.

[randomness]

From http://charlieonthembta.blogspot.com/2007/01/is-fare-evasion-with-new-gates-easier.html:

"Its pretty simple really, the offender just follows you real closely through the gate."

This is the same method I've seen in Paris. "Often people sneak in for free behind someone who has paid."*

I've been warned that pickpockets in Paris will crowd in behind you and try to dip your back trouser pocket at the same time. It's probably just a matter of time before the pickpockets in Boston figure that one out, if they haven't already.

*http://www.paris-anglo.com/dedent/dedent.php?request=guide/ask/transportation/191.php

[Edit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/danslemetro/89871748/ shows a typical Paris metro fare gate.]

Comments

[infinitehotel.livejournal.com]

It may have changed, but the last time I rode the Paris Metro, you had to use your ticket both on the way in and the way out. A bad thing for fidgeters like me who tended to fold, spindle, and mutilate our tickets during the course of the ride. I'm wondering how long before the T puts in something like that. Then they'll be able to track you at both the start and end points of your ride.

[r-ness.livejournal.com]

It may have changed, but the last time I rode the Paris Metro, you had to use your ticket both on the way in and the way out.

Whether you need your Metro ticket to exit depends on the station. (You need to pass your ticket through the exit gate at all RER station exits, for example.) On the other hand, you're supposed to have your ticket on you for inspection at any point on your trip up to the "limite de validité des billets" sign.

I've never even seen a ticket inspector, much less had my ticket checked while in transit on the Metro.

I'm wondering how long before the T puts in something like that. Then they'll be able to track you at both the start and end points of your ride.

I'm sure it'll take the T a while to get around to that. :)

[frotz.livejournal.com]

This is one of those weird timing and travel pattern things; I've had my ticket checked on the Metro a whole big bunch of times. Had never happened to the guy I was living with there. Go figure.

[r-ness.livejournal.com]

Yeah, it really varies.

While I never saw one in Paris, my experience in Germany is that I tended to see fare controllers fairly often. Always had a valid ticket, too.

The nastiest controller I ever ran into was in Budapest. While he was extremely efficient and quick with me--I was carrying a day pass--he really hassled some other guy after me; really got in his face and everything.