What should a driver do if a passenger boards without a valid ticket?

When a passenger boards without a valid ticket, the appropriate course of action is to politely ask for the ticket or inform them of the issue. This ensures that the driver adheres to the regulations and policies regarding ticketing, which are in place to ensure fair treatment of all passengers and to maintain the operational standards of the transportation service. By addressing the situation calmly and professionally, the driver facilitates communication and provides the passenger an opportunity to resolve the issue, whether that involves presenting a ticket, purchasing one, or disembarking if they are unable to do so. This approach helps maintain a respectful atmosphere onboard while upholding the rules that govern the transportation service.

Other responses, like allowing the passenger to ride for free or ignoring them, would not only undermine the importance of ticketing policies but could also lead to further complications, such as disputes with other passengers or financial loss for the company. Suspending the trip until the issue is resolved may cause unnecessary delays and inconvenience to everyone onboard, which is not an effective or practical solution.