What Can You Do if Violence Breaks Out on Your Train or Bus?

A recent shooting on an A train in Brooklyn left some subway riders feeling unsettled, and questioning how they might respond if such a violent clash took place on their train car, bus or other mode of public transportation.

Experts say that public transportation is not uniquely dangerous, and even in New York City, the perception of crime on the subway has eclipsed what the actual data reveals.

Still, it can be helpful to know what public safety experts believe to be the best ways to protect yourself while using transit.

Here’s what to know.

Be alert for dangerous situations.

Tracy Walder, who has worked for the C.I.A. and F.B.I., recommends being alert for people who appear to be “extremely anxious,” such as those who cannot sit still, and those who engage in verbal harassment, though she adds that many people who engage in those behaviors don’t harm others or commit crimes.

“Usually how these start is, it escalates,” she said. “It would start with a verbal harassment and then escalate into physical harassment.”

It’s also essential to focus on the right factors.

“If you monitor your surroundings, don’t judge the people by their appearance. Judge them by their behavior,” said Michal Cieslik, the chair of the security committee of the International Association of Public Transport.