Expert: Michael Troy - 1/7/2009

Question
Michael
Not really a civil rights question but I wasnt sure who to ask hoping you can help.
I live in a medium size city with a lot of recenyt immigrants and foreign students attending university.
I recently was trained and began working as a bus driver.
I am no racist,but I simply cannot understand many of the immigrant passengers when they ask for directions.
East Indian people in particular seem to speak very fast.
On two occasions I have had a passenger leave my bus in frustration.I feel bad about it.
Any advice appreciated!

Answer
I'm not sure one can do much about a language barrier.  Most cities have policies that prevent passengers from having any discussions with the driver as it can be a distraction.

If you want to be help, the polite thing in my mind would simply be to apologize and say you did not understand and ask them to repeat the question more slowly.  You don't want to give even the appearance of being rude if possible.

I hope this helps!
- Mike